Sponsored Walk Takes Place To Raise Vital Funds or Shanklin's John's Club

A 100-mile trek - which saw participants overcome injury and challenging terrain - has raised money for a Shanklin charity.

 Jo Smith and her team completed their 100-mile walk around the Isle of Wight despite Jo picking up a leg injury on the Saturday (April 13) with more than 24 hours remaining in the event.

The walkers visited Cowes, East Cowes, Sandown, Shanklin, Bembridge Seaview and many other Island towns during their fundraising efforts.

Ryde Councillor Michael Lilley came out to see the walkers off.

Jo said:

"I watched my father grow this club with nothing but a few pounds and a lot of love and determination.

"Even after all these years he is unaware of the impact he has had on so many people’s lives and the hope and happiness he has brought them.

"Thank you to the members who joined me along the way and achieved their own goals, and thanks to those who supported and greeted us along the way."

John Phillips, Chairman and Founder of John's Club, added:

"I am really proud of my daughter Jo, who completed the hundred mile walk, and the members who joined in along the way.

"These are difficult times for charities, with people needing support even more with the cost of living and other pressures."

John's Club provides social and recreational activities for disabled people, and those with learning difficulties and mental health challenges.

Members are encouraged to learn new skills, expand their knowledge, fulfil their potential and thereby increasing their independence.

Members can enhance their employment prospects, make new friends and boost their self-confidence. 

Parents, guardians and carers also benefit by the club providing them with some respite.

The charity is still taking donations online.

The charity's latest projects include the centre at Oakfield Football Club in Ryde being developed into a community centre with a warm space, and a new youth service on the horizon.

The newest project has seen John's Club using the House of Chilli location in Arreton to provide training in work skills for members.