PRINCE Harry has expressed his heartfelt support to a Malvern councillor who is set to walk the whole of the district to raise awareness of the issue of mental health.
Malvern Hills District Council chairman John Raine received a Royal seal of approval ahead of his epic day, which starts today (Thursday).
Between September 1 and 10, Coun Raine will embark on his Hike for Health and Happiness – a 130-mile walk taking in every ward across the district – to raise money for local mental health organisations Positive Thoughts, Jigsaw and Link Nurseries.
He also hopes to encourage people to talk more about mental health issues.
Coun Raine contacted Prince Harry to praise him for his work in challenging the issue around mental health and informed him of his own efforts in tackling the issue.
He was then sent a reply from Prince Harry’s office which revealed how touched His Royal Highness was to hear of the councillor’s efforts and to wish him every success with the hike.
Coun Raine said: “Prince Harry is someone who has been at the forefront of challenging the social stigma that exists around mental health and ensuring it does not prevent people from seeking the help they need.
“I’m delighted to receive his best wishes and I am now looking forward to getting out there and raising as much awareness and money for three very worthy causes as I possibly can.”
Starting at Lindridge, north of the district, Coun Raine will take in some of the area’s most distinctive landmarks before finishing the challenge in his home ward of West Malvern on Saturday, September 10.
Coun Raine will be joined on the walk by his wife Susan, police officers and fellow councillors.
People can keep up to date with Cllr Raine’s progress during the ten-day hike by following @Hiking4Health on Twitter and checking the Malvern Hills District Council Facebook page.
• To donate visit www.mydonate.bt.com/fundraisers/hike4health.
