A market stall holder is fundraising for a military veterans charity with a ten-mile walk across London’s landmark bridges.
Judith Sugden, who runs ‘Made By Judith’ in Alfreton Indoor Market, is taking part in the ‘13 Bridges’ challenge on Saturday, June 29, to raise money for the Armed Forces charity SSAFA (Soldiers, Sailors & Airmen’s Families Association).
Judith has been a fundraiser for the charity for 18 months and regularly holds stalls at events, as well as taking collection tins into local pubs and shops, but this is her biggest (and most challenging) fundraiser yet.
Since it was founded in 1885, SSAFA has been a source of lifelong support for serving personnel, veterans, and their families in their times of need.
In 2021 alone, SSAFA-trained volunteers helped more than 66,000 people in need- ranging from World War Two veterans to those who are currently serving.
A spokesman for the charity said of the ‘13 Bridges’ challenge: “One of the best things about taking part in London, is you never know what you’re going to see.
“You might get the see the incredible site of Tower Bridge rising to let ships through; one year our walkers got to see scenes being filmed for a new action film.”
The spokesman continued: “Attendance at the event has doubled over the last two years. This year we are aiming to have 1,000 walkers take the challenge.
“In 2023 we raised over £95,000 but this year we are appealing to our supporters to join in and help us get the total to over £100,000 in 2024.”
The charity is one which is close to Judith’s heart, as both her husband and son are military veterans themselves.
Judith has been going on practice walks in preparation for the big day and is looking forward to the challenge.
She said: “I think I will try to see it as one bridge at a time, and at least there will be lots to see along the route.”
Judith has so far, as of today (Tuesday, April 16) raised £80 on her online fundraising page.
To donate go to https://ssafa.enthuse.com/pf/judith-sugden

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