Scores of people turned out for the Lest We Forget Memorial Run or Walk in the Ashburton Domain.
The pre-Anzac Day walk/run, organised by Rotary International members, took place on the domain grounds last Sunday.
The route includes a section where white crosses were placed not only marked the route but a reminder of why people had gathered.
Ashburton RSA president Merv Brenton, who spoke ahead of the event, was appreciative of those who turned out to support the pre-Poppy Day event.
‘‘The walk is in remembrance of those that we lost years ago, and the money raised is used for welfare.’’
‘‘One thing is sure about your walk today is you’ll come home, many of the boys years ago didn’t come home. That’s what we are remembering today,’’ he said.
‘‘Thank you for your ongoing support.’’
Piper Iain Inglis lead the walkers as they started their walk around a flat, one kilometre circuit around the sports area of the domain.
Organiser Gary Whiting, who gave a pre walk briefing, said people were encouraged to walk or run as little, or as much of the one kilometre circuit, as they wanted – up to 5km.
It has been running for the past 10 years, except for the last couple due to covid, and usually on Anzac Day.
Mr Whiting said with Easter and school holidays during April, organisers – with backing from the Ashburton RSA – made the decision to hold the fun, pre-Anzac Day event ahead of the school holidays instead of the afternoon of Anzac Day.
All proceeds raised on the day go to the Ashburton RSA Poppy Fund.
