AN annual charity walk in and around Ellisfield, north of Alton, raised more than £2,400 for the Campaign to Protect Rural England (Hampshire).

Again organised by Hannah Houstin-Lacey, from the North Hampshire District group of CPRE, the event on April 22 attracted more than 50 walkers and their dogs, who gathered at Ellisfield village hall for either a seven-mile or three-mile walk taking in the bluebell woods.

They joined for the occasion by constituency MP Ranil Jayawardena and Peter Bedford, recent chairman of CPRE North Hampshire District group.

Hannah was delighted with the turnout.

“This was such a happy social occasion with everyone pulling together to support a worthwhile charity. There was a fabulous community spirit throughout the whole occasion, with many friends supporting me as well,” she said.

The walk took in the beautiful Hampshire countryside and ended with tea, cake and a raffle at Ellisfield village hall.

Hannah continued: “It was a glorious sunny day and the bluebells were magnificent. I never get tired of drinking in their sight and smell.

“We also saw the wild primrose, wood anemone and vibrant colours of the trees in spring. It was all fantastic.”

CPRE Hampshire is a cause close to Hannah’s heart.

“The countryside is precious,” she explained. “With a greater demand to build there is a real threat to our green spaces. I want to try to help protect it.

“Involvement with CPRE North Hampshire has been so worthwhile and provides that opportunity, to raise awareness of the charity generally and raise essential funds to support the charity’s work.”

CPRE Hampshire has expressed grateful thanks to Hannah for organising the event.

For more about CPRE Hampshire and its current campaigns, visit cprehampshire.org.uk.