Families strapped on their hiking boots – and their babies – for a sponsored walk in the Malvern Hills.
The event, called Babywearing up the Beacons, was organised by the Malvern Hills branch of the National Childbirth Trust (NCT) and aimed to raise funds for the Malvern Hills NCT Baby Café, an infant feeding support group.
Frances Thurlow, breastfeeding vounsellor, said: “For over 20 years, our baby cafe has been run by our local breastfeeding counsellors.
“We feel it’s really important that we continue to offer a safe and friendly space where parents receive great support to achieve their feeding goals.
“We rely entirely on donations, grants and fundraising so parents receive the support they need free of charge.
“We are so grateful for everyone’s support.”
Malvern Hills NCT Babywearing up the Beacons fundraiser (Image: Malvern Hills NCT)
The event featured two routes designed to include families of all ages and abilities, including a nearly nine-mile Challenge Route from Wyche.
Nine babies and toddlers were carried along the full length of the route, which passed through spring bluebells and climbed Herefordshire Beacon (British Camp) then looped back to Worcestershire Beacon, with a lunch stop at Black Hill.
A shorter, accessible route was also available for those with younger children or prams.
Both groups joined together for the climb to Worcestershire Beacon, creating a powerful moment of community.
In total, more than 50 parents, carers, volunteers, and children took part in the walk.
The event was made possible by a team of volunteers who helped with logistics, planning, and on-the-day support.
NCT chief executive Angela McConville travelled from Oxfordshire to take part in the day.
Funds raised will help keep the Malvern Hills NCT Baby Café running and the group has already exceeded its £500 fundraising target on the day.
Rhiannon Williams, NCT volunteer and walk organiser, said: “It was great to see so many people turn out and join us on the walk today to raise funds for Baby Café.
“We had an amazing group tackle the almost nine-mile Challenge Route carrying their babies and toddlers for the entire length.”
Donations are still welcome and can be made at justgiving.com/page/malvern-hills-nct-2.