Walkers have been putting their best foot forward to raise money for Epping Forest’s largest emergency food agency, with its founder doing his bit by running with an injury to complete the London Marathon.

Two sponsored walks were held for 3Food4U on September 25 – Chigwell Tours’ annual 10km fundraising walk through Hainault Forest and a second organised by the South Loughton Old Walkers Society (SLOWS).

Salome Ahenkora, chief executive of Chigwell Tours, said: "We have managed to raise over £1000, which is an enormous achievement in the current economic crisis.

“The money we have collectively raised will be going towards 3Food4U and PAPA Foundation, helping children in desperate need of food, supplies and education, in the hope that their lives will be improved."

Epping Forest Guardian: Images from the Chigwell Tours sponsored walkImages from the Chigwell Tours sponsored walk (Image: 3Food4U)

Pete Jones from SLOWS said: “We are delighted that our recent charity walk has raised £625 in support of the Loughton Hub of 3food4U. Some of the members…and witnessed the amazing work carried out by Pesh (chair of trustees Pesh Kapasiawala) and his volunteers.

“I am sure the society will wish to continue their support to the charity which is providing such essential support to the community.”

The following weekend Pesh took part in his 13th consecutive London Marathon, despite only having a month to train and carrying an injury – and he admitted it was nearly a case of unlucky 13.

Epping Forest Guardian: Arm aloft: Pesh Kapasiawala after completing the London MarathonArm aloft: Pesh Kapasiawala after completing the London Marathon (Image: 3Food4U)

He said: “It was one of my most enjoyable runs in the end, no pressure, chatting to other runners and the spectators but the last few miles were really tough.

“My body was screaming at me to stop after mile 18, but stopping wasn't an option as I thought of all the people who had sponsored me and were willing me on.

“Finishing injury free and raising £2500 for 3Food4U was a great result."

3Food4U is offering free groceries, clothes and essentials without assessment or referral to anyone that needs it, but the charity does urgently need long-life food donations.

These can be dropped of at any of the community surplus hubs, Balgores Estate Agents in Loughton and Ongar or call 01992 842642 to arrange a collection.

It’s hubs are open as follows:

  • Monday: Waltham Abbey – 13 Sun Street - 11.30am to 1pm
  • Tuesday: Loughton – Loughton Club, 8 Station Road - 11.30am to 1pm
  • Wednesday: Chigwell Row – All Saints Church Hall, Romford Road - 5pm to 6.30pm
  • Thursday: Ongar – Zinc Arts Centre, High Street - 1pm to 2.30pm
  • Friday: Waltham Abbey – 13, Sun Street - 11.30am to 1pm

For further details, visit 3food4u.org, email info.3food4u@gmail.com or call 01992 842642.