Around 240 walkers took part in the latest Sutton 8 pub crawl through the Cheshire countryside, raising £1,120 for East Cheshire Hospice. The event, which combines drinks, food, and fun, has grown in popularity since its inception about a decade ago.
Fundraising for What Women Want
The donation went to the charity's What Women Want fundraising group, which has raised £500,000 over 15 years. The group, consisting of five women, works tirelessly for the Hospice, according to Kristen Lucey, co-owner of the Church House pub.
Sean and Kristen Lucey have run the Church House for more than two years. Kristen said: "Every pub helps with the organisation and it's a great community effort. I organise ticket sales and breakfast. It cost £11 to enter and that covers costs and a charitable donation."
Route and Stops
The summer edition followed its usual 10k route, starting at the Church House pub. Further stops included St Dunstan's Inn in Langley, the Leather Smithy, Hanging Gate Inn, the Ryles Arms, Sutton Ex Servicemen's Club, Sutton Hall, and Ye Olde King's Head in Gurnett.
Kristen explained: "Each pub does their bit which suits them, with music and live bands. Walkers reach the King's Head from mid-afternoon. It depends how many drinks they've had and how quickly they walk. People have as many drinks, and stay as long as they want, in each pub. They usually pace themselves, with a half a pint at each stop and the diehards end at the Kings for a few hours."
Growing Popularity
The Sutton 8 is held twice a year, with the next walk scheduled for Saturday, December 5. Around 40 walkers took part in the longer Langley 11 last month, though three pubs—the Stanley Arms, Wild Boar Inn, and Crag Inn—are now closed.
Kristen noted: "The Sutton 8 is getting a bit of a name for itself. We had people staying in motor homes in our car park from Staffordshire, Liverpool and Scotland. The scenery here is breath-taking. The walk goes through beautiful countryside skirting Macclesfield Forest. On a nice sunny day, it's glorious. The hike started about 10 years ago and has ramped up to quite significant numbers."
Community Spirit
Kristen added: "I'm close friends with the five girls from What Women Want who work tirelessly for the Hospice. We love the way they work and their energy. It's great to contribute to their cause. The Sutton 8 isn't a race. You're there to have a good time, soak up the atmosphere and enjoy a few drinks with friends."
