A NORTHWICH couple trekked 86 miles along Hadrian’s Wall to raise money for a charity that supports people with learning disabilities.

Lesley and Brian Moss, along with their friends Stephen and Angela Sabey from Saffron Walden, began their challenge on July 22 with the aim of raising £500 for Hft’s learning disability service in Bishop’s Stortford.

The two couples decided to walk the length of Hadrian’s Wall in memory of their close friend Quentin Dawe, who died in May 2016. Quentin’s daughter is currently supported at Hft.

Brian said Quentin would have been ‘thrilled’ to take on the trek with them.

He said: “I know this may sound funny but we felt that Quentin was there with us.

“I know on one of the rain soaked days I did chat away to him in my own way.”

Stephen said it was an ‘honour’ to support Hft in Quentin’s name.

“Our lovely friend Quentin would have loved this trek along Hadrian’s Wall - he adored walking, camping and being in the countryside – so this is a fitting tribute to him.”

Quentin was a dedicated and generous supporter of the service, having raised more than £32,000 over the last decade.

He undertook a wide range of events, including the Ride London cycling challenge with Angela, for which they raised more than £3,700.

The group’s efforts saw them raise £2,000, which will go towards a sensory garden.

Brian said: “We all just know the money will make a difference.

“I have seen the work that Hft does with young adults and it’s amazing and humbling to witness.

“The sensory garden will be a fantastic addition to the house.”

Hft’s learning disability service supports more than 80 people across the region.

It offers person-centred services that include residential care, supported employment and supported living at home – from a few hours a week to 24 hours a day.

Charlotte Rue, Hft’s sporting and challenge events manager, thanked the two couples for their fundraising efforts.

She said: “People with learning disabilities can face obstacles that are hard to imagine.

“And while we can’t make those obstacles go away, the practical help, support and encouragement we offer gives them a chance to find a bit more enjoyment, comfort and satisfaction in life.”