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Sam Harris
INTREPID Middlesbrough travellers will boldly go to their destinations on a fleet of space inspired buses.
THEY let their feet do the talking - and good causes across Teesside are walking tall thanks to their efforts.
The Boro Walkers Association have picked up the October Boro Hero Award for their tireless fundraising work.
Launched by elected Mayor Andy Preston, the Boro Hero Awards are recognition of those who go the extra mile, and make a real difference to the lives of those around them.
And the latest recipients embody the spirit that brings out the very best in Middlesbrough's communities.
The Boro Walkers Association was formed in 2013, when co-founders Pete Livingstone and Paul Randall got the ball rolling by completing the full 84-mile length of Hadrian's Wall in just two days.
In just a few weeks they'd raised more than £12,000, and as their numbers began to grow, so did the number of challenges they took on, and the number of local charities they were able to support.
With more than 200 members, and more than 5,000 members of their Facebook page, the Boro Walkers have raised a staggering £170,000 to date.
Fundraising activities range from long distance walks and football tournaments to running events, boxing and evening entertainment, and this year's chosen charities include Butterwick Hospice, the Teesside branch of the Multiple Sclerosis Society and Lorne House.
Co-founder and Chairman Pete Livingstone said: "From that first phone call, the Boro Walkers has grown into something that brings the whole community together on a big scale.
"Lots of people who wouldn't normally go out walking have thrown themselves into it, and what's been achieved is down to them.
"Every penny that comes in goes to the chosen charities - nothing is taken out to cover overheads or expenses.
"We are only accepting this award on behalf of everybody who has participated in the various events since 2013, fundraised and supported us on Facebook - without them we are nothing."
Presenting the Boro Walkers Association with the October 2019 Boro Hero Award, Mayor Preston said: "What an amazing example set by a group of ordinary lads who between them have achieved something truly extraordinary.
"They undertake some pretty gruelling challenges, but that benefits their own health and wellbeing, and their efforts have changed lives for the better.
"They are thoroughly deserving winners of this month's Boro Hero Award."
For more information on the Boro Walkers Association, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or join the group's Facebook page.
- The Mayor will pick each month's Boro Hero from the list of nominations, with the winners also invited to attend the prestigious Civic Community Awards in April 2020 where an overall Boro Hero of the Year will be announced.
To nominate your Boro Hero, visit www.middlesbrough.gov.uk/borohero
Nomination forms will also be available at Community Hubs - for more information, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
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