Get moving to support Suffolk Libraries!

Suffolk Libraries has two opportunities for walking wonders or marathon marvels to get moving to support its work in the community this summer.

Suffolk Libraries is looking for families and individuals to take part in the Rotary Club’s Orwell Challenge in June and also has ten places up for grabs for this year’s Ipswich Half Marathon in September.

The 47th Orwell Challenge will take place on Sunday 23 June 2024, and is open to anyone aged 17 or over. Anyone who signs up by Thursday 29 February will receive a 20% discount off entry fees. The Rotary Club of Ipswich East has been holding its annual charity walk along the banks of the glorious River Orwell for over 40 years.

Challengers can choose from 13, 19 or the full 25 miles, or just the first three miles to the first base with every step of the walk taking in the beautiful Suffolk countryside.

Last year Suffolk Libraries patron and former BBC Radio Suffolk presenter Lesley Dolphin took part in the challenge and raised over £400. At the time Lesley said:

“I’m really chuffed to have completed the Orwell Challenge considering the hot weather! There are over 40 libraries across Suffolk that provide books, the use of computers, group events and a friendly face. I am so pleased to help ensure they continue to provide their essential services that are available to everyone.”

To register for the Orwell Challenge, sign up on the Ipswich East Rotary Club website and choose which walk you’d like to take part in. Once registered, complete this short online form so that Suffolk Libraries’ fundraising team can support you on your challenge.

You can support our Walking Wonders by donating to our JustGiving page.

The Ipswich Half Marathon takes place on Sunday 22 September and will start and finish at Ipswich Town’s Portman Road stadium.

As a charity partner for the Ipswich Half Marathon, Suffolk Libraries is able to offer ten exclusive places for free on a first come first served basis. Entrants must be 17 years of age or over on the day of the event to take part and need to raise money for Suffolk Libraries.

Each registrant will receive a chip timer, finisher's goody bag and an exclusive t-shirt and medal. Once the free places have been allocated, general entry for the Ipswich Half Marathon starts at £30.50.

Both these events are a great opportunity to get fitter, get outside in the fresh air, feel part of a team and to help raise money for the vital work of libraries across Suffolk.