On Saturday, staff and councillors from Haydon Wick Parish Council laced up their walking shoes to join Tracey Boxall and CALM’s sponsored walk raising awareness and funds for the charity – CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably).
What was originally planned as a 16-mile route was sensibly reduced to 9 miles due to the forecast storms, but the determination of everyone taking part never wavered. Setting off from The Village in West Swindon, the route took walkers through West Swindon, Rodbourne, Cheney Manor, Haydon Wick and Taw Hill before returning to a warm welcome at The Village Hotel.
Along the way, the team were grateful for the kindness shown by local businesses, with welcomed hot drinks and hospitality provided by The Shield & Dagger, The Tawny Owl and The Village Hotel 
.
.The day was about so much more than the miles covered. We were humbled to walk alongside Tracey in memory of her son, Alex, and to support a cause that provides a lifeline to so many people facing difficult times.
During the closing thanks, Tracey shared that it costs around £4,000 a day to provide CALM’s vital support services. Thanks to the incredible generosity of supporters, this walk has raised enough to fund two days of suicide prevention support, helping people across the UK access help when they need it most.
Thank you to everyone who walked, donated, encouraged and supported this meaningful event. Together, we have honoured Alex’s memory while helping others find hope and support.
You can read Tracey’s story and support her fundraising here: https://www.justgiving.com/page/tracey-boxall-9…
Haydon Wick Parish Council is proud to support Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) as its chosen charity for 2026-2027. Through fundraising, awareness raising and community engagement, we are committed to supporting CALM’s vital work in standing against suicide and helping people find the support they need during life’s darkest moments.
Learn more about CALM and the support they provide at www.thecalmzone.net
