Aldershot Open Day
7 March 2026
News
Retired Colonel, Leslie Clarke, is taking on an epic fundraising challenge to celebrate his 91st birthday. The intrepid veteran is walking 100 miles to support two charities close to his heart – Step by Step and Combat Stress.
Over the course of the Easter weekend, Leslie will be walking 33 laps of his home village of Normandy, Surrey to help raise funds and awareness. His previous fundraising challenge – while not on this scale – attracted a crowd of well-wishers and around £5,000 in life-changing funds.
He will be setting off on Good Friday and walking throughout the next three days, stopping only to go to church on the Sunday.
Leslie has an impressive background, including a 40-year, globe-trotting career in the military and a stint in local government. He finally retired at 89 years old.
Leslie is a true hero by any measure, and we’re delighted that he has chosen to support young people facing homelessness with his latest endeavour.
Please join us in cheering him on – Step by Step and other well-wishers will be meeting Leslie at Wanborough Station at 10am on Saturday 19th April. The BBC will also be there to capture his impressive challenge.
Good luck, Leslie!
Join us at events across the region and take a stand against youth homelessness. From community gatherings to fundraising challenges and partner-led activities, there are plenty of ways to get involved. Discover what’s coming up and find the event that’s right for you.
