The great-grandson of one of the original Shackleton team who retraced his ancestor’s failed trek to the South Pole will be turning his attention to a slightly less arduous task – when he launches a walking festival.
The second South & Heart of Suffolk Walking Festival, organised by Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Councils, is being launched by Henry Adams - who was part of the Shackleton Centenary Expedition to Antarctica.
Henry is great grandson of one of the original Shackleton team who set off to the South Pole 100 years ago but were forced to stop 97 miles short of their intended destination.
A century later, Henry and his team mates completed the 900 mile journey in January this year.
The walking festival, which has a varied programme of over 60 walks, is sponsored by the Discover Suffolk Project, which aims to encourage local residents and visitors to get out and about in the scenic Suffolk countryside.
Mr Adams, a solicitor in Ipswich, said: "It is a privilege for me to help with the South & Heart of Suffolk Walking Festival.
“Having just returned from a 900 mile unsupported trek to the South Pole, I have experienced at firsthand how there are few things better for your health and happiness than walking regularly.
“Suffolk is blessed with some glorious, unspoilt scenery which is a wonderful antidote to the stresses of modern life.
“I'm also delighted to say that the beautiful paths of Suffolk are much more accessible than the wilds of Antarctica!"
The walks range from an easy amble around Long Melford to a slightly more energetic 12 mile walk around the village of Wetheringsett, taking in the paths and ancient boundaries along the way, that have been in use since Roman times.
There is also plenty to attract a younger audience with activity-based walks such as a trail of discovery entitled ‘Wild in the Wood’ or a walk which includes a quiz called ‘Tramping the Tudor Trail ’around the picturesque village of Lavenham.
Karina Coghlin, Babergh’s Tourism and Arts Manager, said: “The walking festival is in its second year and has been developed to attract visitors from outside of the area as well as to encourage residents to make the most of living in such a beautiful county.
“The South and Heart of Suffolk, with its softly undulating landscapes, pretty villages and magnificent cultural heritage, is the perfect place to relax, enjoy the fresh air and return home feeling recharged and looking forward to returning soon.”
For more information on The South and Heart of Suffolk Walking Festival and information on where to stay, go to: http://www.southandheartofsuffolk.org.uk/ or call 01449 676800 for a free brochure. ENDS
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