Local fundraiser endures gruelling two-day trek to help Christ Church, Fenton
A Stoke-on-Trent resident has completed a sustained long-distance walk to raise money for repairs at a local church, highlighting both community charity and the ongoing maintenance needs of historic religious buildings in the city.
Katie Simpson set out from Christ Church in Fenton on 3 July and covered a total of 75 miles (120km) in two days, finishing at her family’s caravan in Prestatyn, Denbighshire. She made an overnight stop in Chester.
The challenge was prompted after Ms Simpson learned the Grade II-listed church required work on its heating system, with repairs anticipated to cost more than £7,000. The appeal to raise funds for essential maintenance at the building demonstrates the reliance of local heritage sites on voluntary effort and community giving.
- Distance covered: 75 miles (120km)
- Duration: two days
- Route highlights: Christ Church (Fenton) → Chester (overnight) → Prestatyn
| Day | Distance | Stop |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Approx. half the route | Hotel in Chester |
| 2 | Remainder to Prestatyn | Family caravan |
The walk was completed alongside Ms Simpson’s sister-in-law, named as Chenesse. Ms Simpson reported the effort was both physically and emotionally demanding. After reaching the Chester hotel at the end of the first day she experienced severe leg pain and described a moment when her body appeared to go into shock.
"I was very naive… the walk was a lot - a lot physically and emotionally,"
She added:
"I got up on day two and nearly threw the towel in. We were exhausted, we were in pain."
The episode underlines two linked civic issues for Stoke-on-Trent residents: the dependence of community institutions on grassroots fundraising and the physical risks volunteers accept in pursuit of charitable aims. Christ Church is among the city’s historic assets; its Grade II listing recognises architectural or historic interest, but designation does not remove the burden of repair costs from local congregations and volunteers.
Local churches frequently rely on fundraising activities and appeals to meet maintenance obligations. The reported estimate of more than £7,000 for heating repairs at Christ Church places a visible, short-term cost on an otherwise local institution. The success of Ms Simpson’s walk in generating awareness — and funds — will be watched by parishioners and neighbours who depend on the building for worship and community activities.
Further details of the fundraising outcome and any ongoing appeal were not published in the report. Residents interested in contributing or inquires about the church’s repair programme are advised to contact Christ Church, Fenton, or local civic charity networks for confirmation of how to donate and how raised funds will be used.
