Staffordshire businessman supports Walk to the Wall with helicopter flight prize

April 28, 2010 - PRLog -- Now, in appreciation of the giant fundraising efforts that are being made around the event, a local businessman is offering a helicopter flight for two - to the individual that raises the most money.

The prize helicopter flight was the inspiration of James Leavesley of nearby Leavesley Group.  He is regional chairman of the NMA Appeal – a bid to raise £8 million to create a world class centre for Remembrance at the site.  

The flight, in an R44, will leave from the Arboretum, affording spectacular views of the Armed Forces Memorial and the sites 160 other memorials.  As the helicopter ascends, the beautiful rivers and lakes that mark the Arboretum’s boundaries will be apparent, as will the spires of Lichfield Cathedral in the distance.  Depending on conditions and distance, it may also be possible to fly over the winner’s own house.



To suit all abilities, there are two walks, one starting at the Rosliston Forestry Centre and a gentler four-mile circular walk within the grounds of the Arboretum. Start times for both walks are between 11am and noon and they finish within the dramatic and imposing structure of the Armed Forces Memorial at the heart of the Arboretum.

Harpreet Jutlla, the Arboretum’s marketing and fundraising manager said: “The proceeds from this event will be used to maintain and improve the facilities at this free-to-enter site. We’re very grateful to James Leavesley for providing this unique additional incentive to our fundraisers.”

Anyone interested in taking part should complete a registration form, available to download at http://www.thenma.org.uk/media/42767/nma_wttw_regform.pdf.  Alternatively, for more information please call the Arboretum on: 01283 792333. All forms must be completed and returned by May 7th, 2010.

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The National Memorial Arboretum is the UK’s year-round centre of Remembrance; a spiritually uplifting place which honours the fallen, recognises service and sacrifice, and fosters pride in our country. The Arboretum is part of The Royal British Legion family of charities.

Sited in the heart of the Nation, with 50,000 maturing trees and 160 memorials, it is a beautiful and lasting tribute to those who serve their country or who have died in conflict.

Visitors from all walks of life number around 300,000 per year, including Service personnel, veterans, students of all ages, groups and individuals. Over 200 special events are held annually. The Act of Remembrance, including a Silence, is observed daily in the Millennium Chapel.

The Arboretum is home to the striking Armed Forces Memorial which commemorates those who have been killed on duty or as a result of terrorism from the end of the Second World War to the current conflict in Afghanistan.