Story added: 15th July 2025

Stepping out for a cause: Norfolk’s public sector takes on a coastal challenge to support the Foundation.

On Friday 11 July, 120 public sector workers from across Norfolk took on an unforgettable challenge walking along the iconic North Norfolk coastline to raise funds for the Community Sports Foundation. With a choice of three routes; 26.2, 12, or 6.5 miles, the challenge brought participants together along the coastal path, finishing on the stunning cliff tops of Cromer.

For those taking on the full marathon, the day began bright and early at 7am as they gathered at the starting point, the breathtaking Holkham Hall, to check in. With GPS trackers in hand and spirits high, the estate’s deer population looked on as they set off down Lady Anne’s Drive and onto the North Norfolk Coastal Path.

With a multitude of rest stops along the route, walkers were fully supported throughout the challenge and within a couple of hours had reached the first of the major check points, Morston Village Hall.

Greeted by the smells of sizzling bacon, walkers took a moment away from the coastal path to enjoy a selection of snacks, bacon butties and get their caffeine fix. Once refuelled and hydrated (with a fresh pair of socks for some) the walkers hit the coastal path once more – pressing onwards to the next rest station at Cley Village Hall.

Cley marked a significant point in the Norfolk Public Sector Challenge – both in distance and difficulty. It was here that the 12-mile participants joined the route, boosting numbers. But it was also here that the the infamous shingle banks begins – an unforgiving stretch of coastline that tests every step. With the midday sun out in full force, a welcomed coastal breeze offered some relief as walkers powered through this tough terrain, spurred on by the knowledge that a well-earned rest stop lay ahead on Weybourne Beach.

Once at Weybourne, the final group of walkers joined the challenge for the remaining 6.5 miles. A refreshment station by event sponsors Loads4Less served up some much-needed squash, whilst an array of sandwiches and snacks were handed out by Foundation staff and MyClub volunteers, giving our walkers a much-needed final boost.

With the end in sight, the walkers bid a fond farewell to the shingle and gratefully followed the path onto the cliff tops towards Beeston Bump where event sponsors Pymm & Co awaited with a further water station.

Their final destination, Cromer, was now firmly in sight. Shortly after 4pm, the first walker crossed the finish line greeted by cheers from Foundation staff, supporters, volunteers and sponsors alike. Over the next few hours, every participant completed their challenge – some sprinting over the finish line, others dancing but for many it was a simple and emotional finish, walking hand in hand with loved ones who had come to support.

All finishers were awarded a commemorative medal by Hope, a Foundation Realising Potential participant, before enjoying a celebratory meal of fish and chips, waffles, and a well-earned drink.

Reflecting on the challenge Emma Fletcher-Dungay, Head of Fundraising at the Foundation said:

“When we were approached by Broadland and South Norfolk Council, we were really excited about working in collaboration to bring back our Coastal Walk to our event calendar. We really enjoyed working alongside them on this event, and their enthusiasm in organisation and delivery was clear to see. We are very grateful that they chose the Foundation to partner with, as the money raised from this event, is a huge amount and much needed at a time when asking for sponsorship is hard. We are excited to see what 2026 brings and plans are already underway!”

Phil Butler and Kerrie Gallagher from South Norfolk and Broadland District Council, who co-organised the event with the Foundation, said:

“Wow, what an event to be part of. The buzz of the whole day was incredible, and it was a real pleasure seeing so many happy people enjoying themselves all in aid of an amazing charity.

A massive thank you and congratulations to everyone who completed and supported being part of the inaugural Norfolk Public Sector Challenge, without whom this event would just not have been possible. The weather was hot, and the course more brutal than many anticipated. The shingle bank and unexpected hills of Norfolk represented a significant challenge, making the achievements even more rewarding.

Having the support of an amazing local charity in the Foundation, with very dedicated and experienced staff and volunteers made the event run seamlessly, and the involvement of some great sponsors made a real difference to the success of the event.

Thank you to everyone involved, enjoy your rest and be proud of the difference you are making in helping the Foundation drive inclusion for people with disabilities, boosting mental health and wellbeing, and supporting disadvantaged people to raise their aspirations. See you all in 2026!”

The Foundation would like to thank everyone who participated in the success of the day. Firstly, the all the members of the public sector who have raised an incredible £12,000 – a shining example of what can be achieved when we come together in a display of camaraderie, resilience, and community spirit.

Next to the event sponsors:

• Headline sponsors – HelpAlert and Saxon Air
• Supporting sponsors – Barnham Broom, MMC, RWTA, The Solar Panel Cleaning Specialists, Pymm & Co and Loads4Less

To ongoing supporters of the Foundation:

• Green Farm Coffee and Simply Roasted – brilliant sources of caffeine and delicious snacks on all the Foundation’s fundraising challenges this summer.
• Holkham Hall for hosting us in their incredible grounds at the start.

And last, but certainly not least, to the engine of our fundraising events – the Foundation’s MyClub volunteers.