Walk the wall with Niall

Sunderland AFC legend Niall Quinn is challenging people from the region to join him walking Hadrian’s Wall in September to raise funds for the Beacon of Light.

The Beacon's main structure is now in place and construction is due to be completed by summer 2018 – but Foundation of Light needs to raise £2m to complete and kit out the building.

Former Black Cats player and chairman Quinn is backing the Beacon to help light up even more lives across the North East and is calling on football fans and fundraisers to show they care about the region's future by pledging their support to the campaign.

Niall said: "I have a huge amount of affection for Sunderland and the North East but it’s not without its challenges.

The Beacon of Light has been designed to help lots of people become healthier and more active to address some of these real challenges facing our region.

"It will be a first for the UK but we still need help to finish it."

Niall launched ‘Niall’s Mile’ in 2009 in a drive to get more people active with thousands getting involved every year since - last year participants aged from 1 to 81 years old.

The Hadrian’s walk challenge, led by experienced walking guides, will take place on Sunday 17^th September taking a 17.5 mile route from Walltown Quarry to the George at Chollerford - and should take around 8 to 8½ hours to complete.

Walkers will experience stunning views of Crag Lough, pass Housesteads Roman Fort, Brocolitia Roman Temple and probably the most famous tree in the country at Sycamore Gap, whilst enjoying beautiful surroundings throughout – before finishing it all with a pint!

He added: "The walk is challenging due to the distance but there are no huge hills so it’s perfect for anyone wanting to take part in a Charity Challenge without having to run long distances or drive the length of the country.

"I'm a big believer that charity should begin on our doorstep and help local people and the Beacon of Light will combine education, health and well-being and sport together in one place the Beacon will encourage more families to develop healthier lives."

The sign-up fee is £20 and each walker must pledge to raise a minimum of £150 for the Beacon of Light to complete the Hadrian’s Walk Challenge.

Foundation Ambassador Jimmy Montgomery also recently asked more local people to get involved in the Beacon campaign, he said: “Some of the statistics about our region make for uncomfortable reading and with the increased cuts to public services some will only get worse unless more people get involved."