The Valleys Hundred aims to involve local communities in the event and raise awareness of long distance walking. Local Scout and Guiding groups will be an integral part of checkpoint preparation. They have agreed to provide equipment for the tented checkpoints and erect and dismantle the tents. This involvement will ensure that local groups are actively participating, volunteering their time and equipment as well as raising funds for their troops. The response of the Scout and Guide movement has been one of positive commitment, even in the preliminary planning stage of the event.

The route has been divided into five linear day walks, ranging from 19 to 24 miles, with easy public transport links. The Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme and the local Youth Development Teams have been given access to these walks and it is anticipated that the route may be used as a direct part of the Duke of Edinburgh Award and as a team building and fund raising event for the Youth Development Teams.

A scheme of work, aimed at year 7 pupils, is available for schools along the route. Two comprehensive schools, at Pontypool and Tredegar, are being used as major checkpoints: for the start/finish and the breakfast stop. An important point for the both schools in allowing us to use their facilities, was the involvement of pupils. A series of lessons  covering the subjects of English, History, Geography and Welsh has been written, based on the Valleys Hundred. This will enable pupils to gain knowledge of the event that is taking place in their school as well as increasing their awareness of long distance walking. This scheme of work is available to other areas to use and adapt on future Hundred events. Pupils from the two schools will also be encouraged to take an active part in helping on the event.

The Valleys area is a friendly and welcoming place. Leaflet distribution and posters will help to ensure everyone along the route is aware of the event. We anticipate great interest from local communities the event will pass through. Whilst residents will be informed of the strenuousness of the event and the need for participants to keep walking and stay focused, we are sure the warm Welsh “Croeso” will make this a Hundred to remember.

Important links have been forged with the five unitary authorities that the event will pass through. Liaison with their officers responsible for tourism will gain publicity for the Valleys Hundred and ensure that supporters are also aware of tourist attractions within the area. Footpaths officers for the councils have been extremely helpful and supportive, responding to problems with footpaths and advising on potential obstructions.

The Valleys Hundred is taking place in an area of breathtaking beauty and close knit communities. Participants and local residents, schools and community groups will make this a truly memorable occasion.

 

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