Villagers in west Leeds step out in memory of Mavis

Taking place for the 17th time, the event follows a picturesque eight-mile circular route around the west Leeds village.

It will raise valuable funds for four local care homes and is regarded as one of the highlights of the Calverley community calendar.

But this year’s walk will also be a poignant occasion for those taking part, as it is the first to be held since the death of the wife of organiser David Williams.

Dedicating the day to his late wife, Mavis, who died in February aged 80, community stalwart David said: “She was very well known in the village and really enjoyed being involved with the walk. This will be a good way for people to remember her.”

The event was launched in 2000 to help mark the millennium and was inspired by a springtime tradition called the beating of the bounds.

Dating back to the Middle Ages, the beating of the bounds would see large numbers of people making their way around the outskirts of their parish and saying prayers for the success of the harvest.

Today the walk is organised by Leonard Cheshire Disability, St Wilfrid’s Parish Church, Calverley Methodist Church and the Calverley Project 2000 community group while the Rotary Club of Calverley is its main sponsor.

Money raised by the participants through sponsorship and donations will go to Champion House, St Luke’s Nursing Home, Brookleigh Sheltered Housing and The Bungalows.

Tomorrow’s walk will start from the picnic area at the Calverley Arms at 11am.

For further information, ring 0113 257 4794.