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Biggest ever Waendel Weekend almost here
Published Thursday 12th May 11
Thousands of people from all over the world will be heading to Wellingborough this weekend to take part in the 32nd International Waendel Walk. The prestigious event is expected to attract up to 7,000 participants, with people coming from as far away as Australia and China.
The Waendel Walk, the only event of its kind in the UK, kicks off on Friday evening with two friendship walks of 5km and 10km, followed by a weekend of different routes ranging from 5km up to a marathon-distance 42km.
Sue Bull, events manager at Wellingborough Council explains more: "The Waendel Walk is a truly international event and attracts walkers from all over the world. We've had more than 1,500 people register in advance so far, including more than 130 people from Belgium, as well as high numbers from Germany, Italy, Ireland, Spain, Denmark, China and a couple from Australia. We always get a large number of people joining us from Holland as well. This obviously has a really positive effect on the local economy, with hotels, guest houses and shops all getting a big boost in trade.
"People like taking part in the walks because they're safe and very professionally run, but also because we have some stunning countryside that people may not have explored before. As well as our overseas participants, we also have people from all over the UK taking part and even if they're from right here in Wellingborough they're still amazed by the beautiful scenery we have on our doorstep. There's so much to do during the Waendel Weekend - walking, cycling, swimming, short strolls, longer walks through villages, along roads or off the beaten track, routes that are wheelchair and buggy-friendly, free entertainment - there really is something for absolutely everyone. We have families, young children, friends and colleagues taking part and the event always has a really friendly atmosphere. And it looks like the sun's going to shine on us this year, making it even more magical."
Online booking for Waendel events has now closed. Registration starts again from 10am on Friday in the main hall at The Castle. For more information, go to http://www.wellingborough.gov.uk/ or contact Sue at waendel-walk@wellingborough.gov.uk