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  • March 18 2026

How walking 50 Miles in May helps me to give back to Raystede

For one dedicated Raystede supporter, taking part in 50 Miles in May has become an annual tradition built on compassion for animals, a love of walking, and a desire to give back.

Now entering her third year of the challenge, Noreen reflects on why taking part means so much to her and why she encourages others to step up and join in.

Why did you decide to sign up and take part in 50 Miles in May?


This will be the third 50 Miles in May challenge that I have taken on. As a Friend of Raystede, I feel strongly about raising funds for a charity I respect and admire. Walking is such a fun, relaxing way to do this, there’s no special equipment needed, just a comfortable pair of walking shoes and off you go!


An added bonus is the improvement to both my physical and mental health. It’s amazing how something so simple can bring so many benefits.

What did you enjoy about the event last year?


Last year, the weather was good most days, which made the walks even more enjoyable. I felt a real sense of achievement and wellbeing as the miles added up. It also gave me so many opportunities to chat with neighbours and people I met along the way.

I proudly wore my Raystede blue t-shirt, while my two dogs, Ted and Pip, wore blue ribbons and even had little blue poo bags attached to their harnesses - they looked so cute! Lots of people stopped to talk, which opened the door for me to chat more about Raystede. I was pleasantly surprised by how many people already knew of the charity, had adopted a pet from them, or knew someone who had.

What did you enjoy about the event last year?


Last year, the weather was good most days, which made the walks even more enjoyable. I felt a real sense of achievement and wellbeing as the miles added up. It also gave me so many opportunities to chat with neighbours and people I met along the way.

I proudly wore my Raystede blue t-shirt, while my two dogs, Ted and Pip, wore blue ribbons and even had little blue poo bags attached to their harnesses - they looked so cute! Lots of people stopped to talk, which opened the door for me to chat more about Raystede. I was pleasantly surprised by how many people already knew of the charity, had adopted a pet from them, or knew someone who had.

What are your motivations for taking part in this type of challenge?


My motivation comes from wanting to support a charity I’ve been involved with for a long time. Raystede does incredible work caring for animals, large and small, who, through no fault of their own, find themselves in need of a new home or in need of rehabilitation.

Their educational programmes, which help and advise the public on caring for their pets, are another reason I’m proud to fundraise for them and makes every mile worthwhile.

I often visit Raystede with a friend and we really enjoy walking around the centre and seeing the many different animals they care for. Knowing that money raised from 50 Miles in May is going towards supporting these animals to have a good life is so heartwarming.

Why would you recommend 50 Miles in May to others raising funds for Raystede?


I would recommend 50 Miles in May to anyone who wants to make a positive difference. Raystede is built on compassion, and every step you take supports the rehabilitation and rehoming of vulnerable animals.

Completing a challenge like this gives you such a strong sense of achievement. It boosts your self-esteem and can help you stick to an exercise routine. It’s incredibly rewarding to know that something as simple as walking can have such a meaningful impact.

I know that there are many different challenges you can take part in, but if you don’t fancy a marathon or a skydive isn’t for you, then this is a great way to get involved and raise vital funds that the charity needs.

Why would you recommend 50 Miles in May to others raising funds for Raystede?


I would recommend 50 Miles in May to anyone who wants to make a positive difference. Raystede is built on compassion, and every step you take supports the rehabilitation and rehoming of vulnerable animals.

Completing a challenge like this gives you such a strong sense of achievement. It boosts your self-esteem and can help you stick to an exercise routine. It’s incredibly rewarding to know that something as simple as walking can have such a meaningful impact.

I know that there are many different challenges you can take part in, but if you don’t fancy a marathon or a skydive isn’t for you, then this is a great way to get involved and raise vital funds that the charity needs.

Why is supporting Raystede important to you?


Raystede holds a very special place in my heart. Over the years, I’ve fostered and adopted several animals from them. Two years ago, I adopted my dogs, Ted and Pip, two 12-year-old brothers who have brought so much joy into my life.

Every time I visit, the staff and volunteers greet me with a warm, friendly smile and are always happy to answer questions. I love visiting the onsite charity shop, I always come away with a bargain, and the café serves a wonderful range of delicious food too!

Fundraising can be challenging in the current climate, but taking on 50 Miles in May is highly rewarding and satisfying. For me, it’s not just a challenge, it’s a way to give back to a charity that has given so much to me and to countless animals.

Feeling inspired?

Join Noreen and others as part of #TeamRaystede for 50 Miles in May and help injured and unwanted animals in need.

Sign up to walk 50 miles in May