Copford villagers vow to walk 1,000 miles in aid of three-year-old with genetic disorder

The group of five fundraisers from Copford have already completed 500 miles of their mammoth challenge which was inspired by the plight of Grace Beverton, who is three.

A group associated with the village’s Alma Inn pub undertake a fundraising walk in aid of a different cause every year.

This year, due to the circumstances of the coronavirus pandemic, the usual walk could not take place.

But this hasn’t stopped a group of like-minded villagers from attempting an impressive challenge.

As Grace’s family recently moved to Copford, five of their new neighbours and friends decided to walk 1,000 miles throughout the month in her name.

Grace’s dad Dale, 32, an officer with Essex Police, said: “We only recently moved here as we found a bungalow which would really suit Grace’s needs, and straight away we’ve been made to feel at home.

“We only went into the pub for a quick drink one day but before we knew it everyone was asking us if we’d just moved to Copford and making us feel welcome.

“It is the heart of the community and the effort that is being made to help us is just incredible. We can’t thank everyone enough.”

Grace has a mutation of a specific gene and is one of only around 38 people in the world facing such a diagnosis.

She faces frequent painful muscle spasms and cramps and is unable to walk or talk.

Her condition has improved with private therapy and treatment.

Children’s author Kes Gray, who has lived in Copford for about 15 years, decided to take on the challenge after getting to know the family.

“My wife and I own YourZone45 gym, in Colchester, which is where we first became aware of Grace’s plight,” he said.

“Sometimes you can look at a child and think ‘They don’t see you’, but Grace definitely sees you.

“Despite all Grace has gone through, despite the problems she has, she has a beautiful smile.”

Kes trained for six weeks, before walking a marathon last week.

He walked the 1.3 miles from his home to Copford Church and back 20 times.

“The funny thing is I didn’t see a soul until a police car came down the road,” he said.

“As it approached me it slowed and I thought ‘I haven’t done anything wrong.’

“But the window went down and it was Dale, wishing me the best.

“They’ve only just arrived and they’re probably a bit overwhelmed by it, but living in this village you get to realise it is full of lovely people.”

Also taking on the walk is John Ames, 71, who has lived in Copford for 50 years.

“I may be the oldest out of the lot but I was always fairly fit and normally play golf twice a week,” he said.

“I’ve done charity work all my life, I spent 20 years fundraising for the Helen Rollason Cancer Charity, raising about £166,000 for them over the years.

“I did it primarily through golf events and running the Great North Run twice, I’ve always enjoyed it and get a lot out of it.”

The first national lockdown in March proved disastrous for Grace’s therapy and treatment.

Dale said: “None of her therapies were running and you could see the difference in her.

“We did everything we could at home but it wasn’t the same.”

But with a better understanding of the virus during the second lockdown and the use of personal protective equipment, Grace is now able to attend some therapy sessions again.

For the first time in a while, Dale can say: “We’re doing well.”

“We were walking with Grace around the woods the other day and we just realised we had found the perfect home as a family. We’re happy.”

To donate, visit justgiving.com/fundraising/walkingforgrace.