More than 1,000 walkers battled the grey skies to turn Guernsey orange on Saturday as this year’s Saffery Rotary Walk once again brought the island together in support of local charities.
The Walk, one of Guernsey’s most popular and inclusive fundraising events, took place on Saturday 6th June, with participants of all ages and abilities braving the weather and stepping out across the main 39-mile route, the Family Walk and the much-loved Step By Step Walk.
From the early morning start in challenging rainy conditions through to the final walkers arriving in sunshine, Guernsey’s coastline was filled with orange shirts, community spirit and support from families, friends, volunteers and islanders cheering participants on along the route.
The main Walk began at 4.30 am from the former Tourist Information Office, with individuals and relay teams setting off before sunrise to take on the full island circuit. Among those taking part were walkers from Guernsey, the UK and further afield, including participants who travelled from as far away as South Africa and Texas to be part of the event.
As well as attracting walkers from overseas, the event once again showed why the Saffery Rotary Walk has become one of Guernsey’s most inclusive charity events.
The Step By Step Walk returned at Rosaire Court, giving residents, family members, friends and supporters the opportunity to take part in their own way. Rather than following the full coastal route, participants completed lengths of the car park, collectively walking the equivalent of the 39-mile island circuit.
The Step By Step Walk has become an important part of the event, allowing people who may not be able to take on the full route to still experience the atmosphere, achievement and fundraising spirit of the day.
Lisa Vizia, Director at event sponsor Saffery Trust, said: “It was fantastic to see 1,000 walkers taking part again this year and bringing such a positive atmosphere to the whole island. The Saffery Rotary Walk is always a special day, but there was something particularly uplifting about seeing so many people out in the weather, supporting each other and raising money for local charities.
“What makes the Walk so special is that it is not just about those completing the full 39 miles. The Step By Step Walk is a wonderful example of how the event brings people together and makes sure more members of our community can feel part of it. Seeing residents, families, friends and supporters taking on their own version of the Walk is incredibly moving.”
Walk Chairman, Simon Milsted, added: “We are absolutely delighted with the turnout, especially given the weather conditions and hugely grateful to everyone who took part, volunteered, sponsored, donated or came out to cheer the walkers on.
“To have so many walkers taking part again is an incredible achievement and shows just how much this event means to the community. We were also delighted to welcome walkers who travelled to Guernsey especially for the event, including participants from all parts of the UK, Jersey, South Africa and the US.
“That support is a real reminder of the reputation the Walk has built over the years, not only locally but among people who see Guernsey as a very special place to take on a challenge.”
Among this year’s standout challenges was the effort by Guernsey firefighters Matt, Craig and Russell, who set out to complete the Walk wearing full firefighting kit while sharing a breathing apparatus set throughout the route.
Their challenge added another memorable story to the day and helped raise further awareness and sponsorship for the local charities supported by the Walk.
The Walk is promoted and delivered jointly by Guernsey’s two Rotary Clubs, with months of preparation devoted to planning the route, checkpoints, volunteer support, and event logistics.
Rotarian Nigel Dorey said: “An event of this scale simply would not be possible without the dedication of our volunteers, sponsors and supporters. From those helping at checkpoints to the people working behind the scenes long before the day itself, we owe them all a huge thank you.
“We are also incredibly grateful to Saffery Trust for their continued support as our main sponsor in this their 10th year. Their backing, along with the generosity of our other sponsors, helps ensure that the money raised by walkers can go directly to the charities chosen for this year’s event.”
With donations still being collected, walkers are being encouraged to finalise their sponsorship through their SportsGiving pages or paper forms. Sponsor monies can also be dropped off at the Saffery Trust’s office between 9 am and 5 pm, Monday to Friday.
Simon Milsted concluded: “It has been another brilliant day for Guernsey and for the charities that we are supporting this year. Now we want to turn all of that effort, goodwill and orange- shirted energy into real impact for these Bailiwick charities.”
Early images from the 2026 Saffery Rotary Walk, with many more to follow.
