A MAN from Llandudno was supported by his workplace to walk 140 miles around the Anglesey coastline to raise money for Blind Veterans UK, the national charity for vision-impaired ex-service men and women.

James Singleton, 26, lives near to the Blind Veterans UK Centre of Wellbeing in Llandudno and always knew that if he took on a challenge for charity it would be in support of the charity.

At the start of September, James set off from his home address and completed his walk around the entire coastal path in nine days.

His workplace Gwynedd Forklifts Ltd based in Colwyn Bay were keen to support James in his challenge.

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Catherine Wright, Charity Champion at Gwynedd Forklifts, said: “As a business we first became aware of Blind Veterans UK a few years ago when we provided equipment to help them put up Christmas decorations at their Llandudno centre.

“Over the years we’ve learnt more about their work while meeting the veterans and team members. We’ve been keen to do something for some time and getting behind James’ challenge has enabled our team to feel they are all doing their bit for this amazing charity.”

James was given time off from his job to take on the challenge and when news reached Gwynedd Forklifts’ parent company, Briggs Equipment, they offered to more than match his fundraising with a contribution of £2,000.

As a result of the support from his employers and colleagues James was able to smash his original £500 fundraising target and raised £3,400 for Blind Veterans UK.

Catherine said: “We are so proud of James. His challenge has really brought our team together and we hope to build on this sense of camaraderie by continuing our fundraising for Blind Veterans UK.”

Victoria Beech from Blind Veterans UK’s Community Partnerships Team said: “Fundraising brings teams closer together by encouraging communication and creative thinking. It gives everyone a common cause they can feel good about supporting.

“It’s a great way for organisations to support a good cause while connecting with the local community.”

  • If you are part of a group or organisation that would like to get involved with fundraising for Blind Veterans UK contact fundraising@blindveterans.org.uk
  • If you, or someone you know, served in the Armed Forces, including National Service, and are now struggling with sight loss call 0800 389 7979 or visit blindveterans.org.uk/support