WALKERS were out in force over the weekend for this year’s Bala Challenge described as “one of the best” to date.

More than 200 walkers of all ages and from across the UK descended on Bala on Saturday to take part in the series of walks organised by Bala and Penllyn Rotary Club in collaboration with the RNLI and Mountain Rescue to raise £4,000. Participants fundraising for their own charities were also able to raise over £2,000.

Norman Jones, president of Bala Rotary Club, said: “This was one of the best events we have held to date. People had travelled from as far as Leeds and London to take part and were generous in their donations.

“The weather was fantastic for walking; not too hot or windy, no rain but a little bit of cloud.”

The most popular route of on the day was the Bala Lake Circuit, a 14-mile, eight-hour walk around Llyn Tegid and the Aran Ridge with a total ascent of 1,700ft, with 100 people taking part.

Mountain Rescue were also present at the event with a gazebo information tent that offered shelter from the sun.

Funds raised by the event will contribute to the Rotary Club’s projects throughout the year, such as the Urdd’s Patagonia 2018 trip, leadership projects for 15 to 17-years-olds and the club’s ongoing partnership with a school and students in Milo, Tanzania.

Mr Jones said: “The Rotary Club is a credible organisation so people can trust us to contribute their donations to valuable places.

“Alongside our three main ongoing projects we’ll contribute to the funds raised to what we call ‘local good causes’ throughout the year. Things come along all the time.

“I’d like to thank Adrian Murray, secretary for the Rotary Club, who has worked his socks off to make the event happen.

“I would also like to thank Mountain Rescue for their involvement, as well as well as all the members and supporters who volunteered to help. It makes a big difference.”

For more information visit the Bala and Penllyn Rotary Club website or contact Norman Jones on 01678 530229.