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Huge thanks and congratulations to everyone involved with the Big Walk 2025!

This year's event on Friday 27 June attracted a record number of participants, with nearly 450 staff, alumni and friends of the University turning out to raise vital funds for cutting-edge neurological disease research at Sheffield.

With the total raised so far standing at an incredible £96,000 including Gift Aid, donations and sponsorships are still pouring in. They'll continue to do so over the coming days via the , where you can still add your own support if you haven't already.

Assisted and marshalled by an 80-strong team of volunteers, this year's cohort of Big Walkers took on a choice of two routes - either 20 miles, or 31 miles - through some of the most stunning scenery the Peak District has to offer.

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A massive thank you to everyone involved on the day - and an extra gold star to photographer Andy, who was always popping up to offer a welcome break while he grabbed a couple more snaps!

I'm so delighted to have been a part of this. It was a great experience and a thrilling challenge for a really good cause.

Vin Silvestri

Senior Room Bookings Officer, University of Sheffield

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For the second year in a row, Academic Skills Adviser Oli Johnson was the first Big Walker across the finish line. Oli arrived back at The Edge just before 1pm to a deserved round of applause, having run the 31-mile route in an astonishing five hours and five minutes.

Elsewhere, the vast majority of walkers (understandably!) opted to enjoy their voyage around the Peak District at a far more leisurely pace, with groups of smiling finishers continuing to arrive at The Edge throughout the afternoon and early evening.

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It's been eye-opening for me over the past few years to see the journey that my sister-in-law has been on, from first experiencing MS symptoms to getting a diagnosis. Her treatment has allowed her to adapt and get on with life as a mum, teacher, netball player, and pillar of her local community.

Supporting the Big Walk is special - it's great to feel part of a dedicated and motivated Sheffield fundraising community. It's also an opportunity to make a real difference. You're directly funding new and improved treatments for life-changing neurological illnesses, which has a genuine impact on quality of life for countless patients and families.

Oli Johnson

Academic Skills Adviser, University of Sheffield

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Alison Grasmeder, Deputy Director for ITE and a Geography PGDE tutor at Sheffield, was participating in her third Big Walk. "It's such a friendly and well-organised event, and I love chatting to lots of different people along the route," she said.

Taking part this year was a huge personal challenge for Alison, after becoming seriously ill with sepsis late in 2024. She was delighted to complete the course, and to meet up with Sharon and Nigel Middleton - the parents of Gemma Middleton, who Alison had taught at secondary school - at the finish line. Gemma's death from motor neuron disease aged just 29 was a big part of Alison's motivation for wanting to be involved in the Big Walk again in 2025.

All participants who completed the route earned a medal (crafted from laser-cut wood, courtesy of makerspace). There was even a post-walk massage service available at the finish line, helping to soothe walkers' aching limbs before a well-earned pint of Big Walk 2025 pale ale, created by returning event partner Thornbridge Brewery.

Huge thanks and congratulations to every single person involved in making the Big Walk 2025 such a joyful, collaborative and successful event. We can't wait to see you all at the next one!