A trio of Union Street shop owners in Ryde have come together to host a fundraising event to support the Wildheart Sanctuary’s ongoing mission to rescue two brown bears in Azerbaijan.
Tina Lettington of Bellissima, Jayne of No 66 Cards and Gifts, and Sheila from Sugar and Spice Lingerie decided to create their own fundraiser after attending several events for the cause.
The barefoot walk idea
The three shop owners came up with the idea for a ‘Barefoot Walk’, a fun and lighthearted event to raise awareness and funds for the bear rescue. The clever play on words added a bit of humour to the serious mission at hand.
On Sunday, 29th September, around 30 participants set off from the Wildheart Sanctuary in Yaverland, despite the weather not being ideal for walking barefoot.
A fun day for all ages
The walkers, some of whom were in fancy dress, included families with young children in buggies, dogs, and participants with faces painted by Team Unicorn.
They made their way to the Salix Cafe at Small Hope Beach in Shanklin for refreshments before heading back to Yaverland.
Although the weather didn’t quite cooperate for a true barefoot walk, spirits remained high throughout the event.
Fundraising success
Participants registered for the walk, with donations also being collected from visitors at The Salix Cafe and along the walking route.
The event raised an impressive £616 in total for the bear rescue fund.
Tina Lettington of Bellissima expressed her gratitude, saying,
“Thanks to everyone that turned out and all those that came together in support of the event.
“We are so pleased to have contributed ourselves to the Bear appeal.”
The fundraising effort by the Union Street shop owners adds to the growing community support for the Wildheart Sanctuary’s important work.
