A YORK hospice is offering people the opportunity to swap the Bar Walls for the Great Wall of China next year in a major fundraising venture.

The challenging five-day trek in October 2020 will take in both original and restored parts of the wall and will be rounded off with a trip to Beijing and two of its biggest attractions, The Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square.

But it will all come at a price, of £1,925 for flights, transport, accommodation, meals, guides and permits, and St Leonard’s Hospice says it would also like all participants to raise a minimum of £1,500 for it in sponsorship.

“This is a real bucket list trip – and what better way to tick it off your list than trekking as part of Team St Leonard’s during the hospice’s 35th anniversary?” said Sarah Atkinson, events team lead.

She said an information evening will take place in ‘The Stables,’ next to the main hospice building in Tadcaster Road, from 6.30pm on Wednesday, April 17.

“As well as members of the hospice fundraising team, a representative from The Different Travel Company will be there to show a presentation, talk through the itinerary and answer any questions.

“Attendance is free and there will be drinks and snacks available.We encourage anyone who is even a little bit interested to come along to the information evening to find out more.

“There’s no obligation to sign up on the night – it is simply a chance for people to find out more – but we’re sure once you’ve heard more about it and seen the photos you’ll want to!” She added that support with fundraising will be given to those taking part.

*For more information, contact Sarah on 01904 777 777, email sarah.atkinson@stleonardshospice.nhs.uk or visit www.stleonardshospice.org.uk