The Louise Smalley Walk’s beginning came, as these things often do, out of a conversation in a pub. This one was about long-distance walking and it seemed, through the ‘beer goggles’ of those present, to be a great idea to have a go under the guidance of Joe Mason who had previously undertaken such feats. 

With a basis of three volunteers and in an effort to get walker numbers up, it was decided to give the walk a name. It was around this time that Trevor and Wendy lost their baby daughter Louise after a long battle with ill health. They were approached by Joe for permission to name the walk in honour and memory of Louise. Wendy and Trevor were touched by the idea and became great workers and advocates for 

The Louise Smalley Challenge Walk.

On the 11th of June 1994 the first LSW took place;
12 walkers, almost as many support crew and a blazing hot, sunny summer’s day.

The rest, as they say, is history.
For many years, Joe and Trevor worked tirelessly to put the walk on each year. Many miles were walked, friends and memories were made and still the walk marches on…