Olive limbers up for walk

The 74-year old from Oswestry will join between 300-400 walkers on March 25 for the annual 10k Derwen College sponsored walk, having already clocked up more than 400 miles to support the charity over five decades.

She has raised thousands of pounds during that time towards facilities for students with learning disabilities and difficulties.

Although she missed the very first college sponsored walk in 1967 she took part in the 1968 walk at the age of 24. Half a century later she shows no signs of slowing down.

She has already raised £400 this year.

“I have had to pick up extra sponsor forms from the college, I’m on my fourth form now,” she said.

I’ve got some very supportive friends from church, gardening club and dancing.”

Miss Morris says she keeps fit through gardening, and is not at all worried about completing the 10 kilometre route.

"The walk is actually easier than it used to be. We used to walk 10 miles and go up Oswestry Racecourse, it was quite a pull up there.”

This year the college which is raising funds towards a new therapy and fitness centre including a much-needed hydrotherapy pool and specialist equipment.

She has no plans to retire from the walk in the near future.

“When I reached 70, I said I wasn’t sure how long I’d keep it up but I’m still doing it. I’ve probably slowed down a bit but I’ll keep going as long as I can. I am very proud to say I support Derwen College. I visit the garden centre often and will be coming to the Summer Fete on May 31.”

This year’s walk is a 10k route, with 6k option, starting and finishing at Derwen College and taking in the countryside around Gobowen. It has staggered start times from 11am and should finish by 2pm. Every walker receives a free hot drink and soup and home-made bread roll on completion. Special walk breakfast and lunch menus will also be available in The Orangery Restaurant and Garden Cafe.