News Archive February 2020

A number of Suffolk business leaders are walking over hot coals on Wednesday 26th February 2020 to raise money and awareness for Suffolk Mind.

The independent mental health charity and The East of England Co-op are hosting a Fire Walk at the Ufford Park Hotel in Woodridge where people will be walking barefoot over hot embers for charity. But, don’t panic, they’re using specialists to do this – the person in charge has broken the Guinness World Record for the ‘Greatest fire walking distance’ twice.

Ginny Idehen, Head of Business Operations at Suffolk Mind and a Director of the Suffolk Chamber of Commerce is getting involved: “Fire Walking is a challenge designed to help transform fears and encourage participants to do things they didn’t think possible. It is the perfect event for Suffolk Mind to promote and I am very excited, yet apprehensive to take on the hot coals on 26th February.

“We have lots of big business names taking on the challenge for Suffolk Mind, but registrations are open to anyone, so you can come along to test and challenge yourself.”

Doug Field, CEO of The East of England Co-op said: “There are a number of reasons why I wanted to do a firewalk and play a small part in supporting the excellent work of Suffolk Mind in talking about and taking care of your emotional well-being.  One of those reasons was to help my two boys, aged 10 and 7, develop a growth mindset and see what is possible.”

Suffolk County Council Chairman, Councillor James Finch is also taking part in the Fire Walk. As part of his Charity of the Year partnership with Suffolk Mind, Cllr Finch has already completed 10 walks across the Suffolk countryside and the Fire Walk will be his 11th and final walk.

Cllr James Finch, said: “I am really looking forward to my sponsored fire walk as it is something I have never done before. 

“Over the summer I completed my 10 sponsored walks for Suffolk Mind along the entire length of the Stour Valley Path, walking with groups of family, friends and fellow fundraisers from Newmarket to Cattawade. It was a truly wonderful experience to share the fresh air and stunning views with others, whilst at the same time raising funds for Suffolk Mind and awareness of the real benefits of physical activity to improve mental health and wellbeing.

“I wish all my fellow fire-walkers the best of luck for the event, if you would like to sponsor me please visit my fundraising page on the Suffolk Mind website.”

Other business leaders include Carole Burman, Managing Director of MAD-HR; Ian White, Suffolk Mind Chair of Trustees and Managing Director at Becketts; and Andrew West, Managing Partner of Gotelee Solicitors LLP.

To support people taking on the Fire Walk, click here.

Author: Ellie Winch
Posted on: 26th February 2020