Jonathan and Rebecca Djanogly
Westminster Great Wall of China Challenge 2008
Dear Friends
We are back from China - having successfully walked the entire route. It was an amazing experience.
The “Great Wall” is actually a series of walls built, over a number of centuries of different designs, in brick or stone.
The areas which we covered were mainly well off the beaten track. So much so, that on two days we saw no-one outside of our group on the wall.
Walking up to the wall in September, basically involved beating our way up steep hills through jungle and avoiding spiders bigger than our fists. Once on the wall we were treated to a series of spectacular views; although these had to be earned by hours of walking up and down broken steps. Only limited sections have been restored which often meant scrambling over loose rock. What also made it difficult was the irregularity of the height of the steps - but we are certainly fitter people for it!
We much enjoyed the company of our group who were all connected, in one way or another, with the Westminster village. The accommodation was, how shall we put it, interesting. Rebecca says that the sleeping arrangements were the week’s greatest challenge!
We had a fascinating time and learnt much about Chinese culture and the Chinese people; who were very hospitable to us.
It has also been great to raise a good sum for our chosen charities For those who supported us, we really appreciate your help - thank you very much.
Best wishes,
Jonathan and Rebecca
PS: A selection of photos can be seen on my website: www.jonathandjanogly.com
Best wishes and thanks for your help
Rebecca and Jonathan
- Total raised online
- £3,213.00
- view donations
- Total Gift Aid reclaimed
- £473.85
- Total raised offline
- £7,760.00
- Grand total
- £11,446.85
A message from Westminster Challenge
Westminster Challenge was created in 2006 to act as a link between the political and charitable worlds, promoting the work of each with the other and the general public, and to help fundraise on their behalf. For the duration of this Parliament three main charities are being supported: Crimestoppers, The Children’s Society and Cancer Research UK, as well as a charity from each participating MP’s local constituency.
Westminster Challenge has gained much support from across the political divide. The Right Honourable Tony Blair, and the leaders of the Conservative and Liberal Democrat parties have all pledged their support along with a number of other members of both Houses of Parliament.
The Westminster Arctic Challenge
In February 2007, an intrepid cross-party team of Members of Parliament participated in the inaugural challenge: travelling across the Arctic wilderness through Finland, Sweden and Norway by husky dog sled. The MP team of Emily Thornberry (Lab), Ed Vaizey (Con), Tobias Ellwood (Con), Nick Clegg (LD), Jenny Willott (LD) were accompanied by senior representatives from the three main charities and The Guardian and ITV. The Challenge proved a great success, raising thousands of pounds for the charities, as well as fantastic media coverage for the event.
Trek China 2008
Following the success of the Arctic Challenge, Westminster Challenge’s second expedition will take place in China with a trek along the Great Wall. Departing 1st September 2008, this Challenge will be unique as it coincides with the Beijing Olympics and Paralympics.
Trek Kilimanjaro 2009
All MPs have been balloted on the destination of the next main Challenge; the result: Kilimanjaro. In August 2009 a cross party team of MPs will take to the ‘roof top’ of Africa in a demanding, yet exhilarating climb.
Please show your support for all those participating- thank you.
