Best Foot Forward

When Phil Watts’ wife Tracy was diagnosed with Primary Progressive M.S last year, he decided to do something to help. After researching the disease and coming across the MS Society website, Phil realized that it was important to raise awareness, and money for the charity.

“After the initial shock of the diagnosis had passed, I just wanted to help however I could. The MS Society sent us avalanches of information, offered support, and was really helpful. I wanted to repay that kindness shown by the charity.”

Phil came up with the idea of a sponsored walk with a twist. Realising that the event would have to be really special to raise awareness, he decided to finish at Land’s End, a staggering 198 miles from the Southampton starting point!

Phil set up ‘Best Foot Forward’, and in the first month raised an impressive £1500. Having drafted in best friend Diago Brito, Stepson Steven Bristow, son-in-law Barry Meech, and brother Graham to accompany him on the trek, Phil started on the detailed preparations.

Just before Christmas he contacted the MS Society in Southampton, and arranged a meeting. Charlie Bloom, Tony Gerrard and Steve Beeching pledged support to the project, assisting with admin, fundraising, and organizing the barbeque!
As well as the marathon walk, a short 10km walk and a 2km wheelchair push are also taking place on the 1st August – the starting day of the event. Phil says that the walk will be a great way to raise money for a good cause and have fun at the same time.

“Our intention is to get as many branches involved along the way as we can to maximise exposure and to raise valuable funds for other branches as well.”

(MS Society newsletter, 2009)