New Dartmoor challenge invites walkers to fundraise for lifesaving local charities

Local hikers and families are being invited to take part in a fundraising walk across Dartmoor in support of Devon Air Ambulance and Dartmoor Search and Rescue Team Plymouth.

The Postbridge Challenge is set to take place on Saturday 7 March, starting and finishing at Bellever Forest car park. 

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Walkers have the choice of either a 10-mile circular route or a shorter, family-friendly 4-mile route.

Organisers say the event is a chance to explore the moor while raising money for two emergency services that play a vital role across Devon.

Devon Air Ambulance posted the event on social media, describing it as a chance to “experience Dartmoor at its best, whilst fundraising for two very important causes”.

A longer 10-mile route will take in Postbridge, Braddon Lake and Broad Down before passing several Dartmoor landmarks, including Lower and Higher White Tor, Longaford Tor, Bellever Tor and Laughter Tor.

The shorter 4-mile ‘Family Adventure’ route, aimed at children 8 and above, will follow a circular path from Bellever Forest to Lanehead Hill, Bellever Tor and Laughter Tor, with checkpoints and stamps to collect along the way.

A Tramper-accessible 2.5-mile route is also available at Bellever for those who need it, by prior arrangement.

The walk will start at 8.45am, with final start times set at 9.15am for the 10-mile route and 10am for the family route. 

All walkers must finish by 4pm, with a safety cut-off point in place mid-route during the afternoon.

Organisers have advised that participants should be properly equipped for a day on open moorland, including suitable clothing, food and drink, and basic navigation equipment such as a map and compass. 

At least one member of each group should have basic navigation skills.

Tickets cost £18 for the 10-mile route, £8 per person for the 4-mile route, or £20 for a family ticket covering up to four people.

Funds raised will support the ongoing work of Devon Air Ambulance and Dartmoor Search and Rescue Team Plymouth, both of which rely heavily on public support.

The event is subject to landowner permission, and organisers say refunds will be issued if it has to be cancelled.

More information and tickets are available through the event’s fundraising page.