To celebrate the 10th anniversary of Purple Elephant Family Support Charity, the manager and co-founder of this much-loved local organisation is planning a special challenge, with a spring in her step and a very 'Frome' spirit in her heart.

On Saturday 17 May, Sue Willis, despite suffering from arthritis in her hips, plans to walk 'The Frome Wheel' to raise money for the families of Frome and surrounding villages.

Thanks to the dedication of some "remarkable people", Purple Elephant has grown from just one short afternoon of children's summer fun a decade ago, into a vital and well-respected local charity.

Its work in supporting those facing daily, and sometimes lifelong, disadvantage reaches out via early-years and early-intervention parenting support, a youth club, holiday activities, a child befriending services, community engagement and support for refugees, support for those with challenging mental health issues and, of course play, fun, creativity and joy in young lives, including the annual, huge, free-to-all, Frome Children's Festival.

Sue explained: "The people who work and volunteer for Purple Elephant are doing the serious hard work of helping children every day.

The Walking Wheel is one of Frome's mapped out longer walks

"To honour all those who have made this journey with us, I will be walking at least 20 miles around the area which we serve from Frome, through Beckington, Buckland Dinham, Great Elm, Tytherington and Berkley - covering most of our catchment area via the Frome Walking Wheel. As well as trying to avoid too many cows, as they really are quite big and scary close-up!"

As well as cheering her on or joining the walk on the day, the public can support Sue by going to Purple Elephant's website and Local Giving page where they can donate and sponsor, in support.

advertisement

In the meantime, the last word must go to the inspiring and dedicated Frome's Sue Wills who added: "Yes, some people can run marathons or swim the channel, but that's not something I am able to do, nor can I climb Everest - but this is my personal challenge and, for me, it is quite a mountain, I can tell you.

"So, if you can offer a few pounds towards my target, or ask a local company to sponsor us, we can all make our personal challenges a reality and bring a bit of joy to disadvantaged families."

See more online here.