A care home in Hampshire has surpassed its fundraising target by more than £200, delivering £520 to Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance (HIOWAA) after a strenuous sponsored walk. The Dower House, an independent care home in Headbourne Worthy, organised the annual event along the Watercress Way—a 10-mile trail that winds through Hampshire’s rolling farmland and past the remnants of a Victorian railway.
The 12-strong group, including residents and staff, set off under clear skies with two canine companions—Buddy and BipBop—who added a playful element to the six-hour trek. Along the route, they spotted curlews, hares, and rare orchids, pausing in the village of Chilcomb for tea and cake at a local café. Christine Farmery, activities co-ordinator at The Dower House, said the effort was both challenging and rewarding. “The walk is tough, but the cause makes it worthwhile,” she said. “We’re thrilled to have exceeded our target and grateful to everyone who sponsored us.”
Key Points
- ✅ £520 raised for Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance
- ⚡ Walk covered 10 miles of the Watercress Way trail
- 💡 Dog companions Buddy and BipBop joined the trek
Residents played a central role, with 82-year-old Mrs. Jackson describing the event as “a jolly good effort.” She added: “We’re proud to support the air ambulance and relieved the rain stayed away. The stories from the crew made it all the more special.” The charity, which relies on donations, recently received a £100,000 grant to build new training facilities and is on track to complete its 15,000th mission this month.
📋 By The Numbers
- 15,000 — Total flights completed by HIOWAA
- 12 — Team members who took part in the walk
The Dower House, set on five acres of landscaped gardens, provides both residential and nursing care. Its annual fundraising walk has become a highlight of the calendar, with proceeds split between HIOWAA and a local charity supporting adults with learning disabilities. This year’s effort follows a £1,000 donation raised at a charity golf day in Winchester earlier this month. Organisers confirmed plans to repeat the walk next spring, with a target of £700.
| Aspect | 2023 Walk | 2024 Walk |
|---|---|---|
| Distance | 8 miles | 10 miles |
| Funds raised | £480 | £520 |
| Participants | 10 | 12 |
HIOWAA’s fundraising director, Sarah Whitmore, praised the initiative: “Every penny counts. These community efforts sustain our critical service, especially as we expand our training and recruitment.” The charity currently has 400 applications for eight paramedic positions, with successful candidates expected to start in September. Whitmore added: “We’re seeing growing support from care homes, which is heartening given the sector’s own pressures.”