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'Walking on the Wilding Side'

  • Writer: Lynda Croft
    Lynda Croft
  • Jul 21
  • 2 min read

When the unstoppable Jim Wilding was recovering from getting a new hip, he decided that it would be a good test to take it on a walk around the Suffolk countryside.


At the ripe old age of 84, he thought he could challenge his new hip and raise money for a new Doppler Machine for Hadleigh Health Centre at the same time. 'Walking on the Wilding Side' was born.


Jim dropped in to Heathpatch's office in Semer asking our director if he could include Heathpatch land on the walking route. The answer was of course "Yes" and our head gardener, Miles, helped him to plan his route.


On the 6th July, Jim and a band of friends set off from Manor Farm, Semer, to walk 15 miles, in our beautiful corner of Suffolk.


Group of walkers in front of Manor Farm house.
Jim Wilding and his group setting off from Manor Farm, Semer. Heathpatch head gardener, Miles (2nd from left), was there to see them off. Photo credit: Peter Cutts

It was an unusually dull day after all the lovely weather that we've had. There were a few showers around but that was probably a good thing as it kept it cooler for everyone.


Man with rucksack, walking canes and drinks bottle looking over a grassy field with sheep. Trees in the distance.
Jim has a brief stop to take in the view. Photo Credit: Peter Cutts

Jim was unstoppable and an inspiration to everyone with him.


A larger group of walkers at the end of their 15 miles.
Jim (2nd from right) and his happy group finished the walk in good health. Photo Credit: Peter Cutts

He made it back to Manor Farm and collected a few more walkers along the way.


Well done everyone, especially Jim Wilding for his idea and leadership.


At the time of writing, Jim has raised just short of £3,000 towards his £3,500 target for the new Doppler Machine for Hadleigh Health Centre.


The machine will be used in conjunction with the Centre’s new initiative ‘the preventative approach to leg care’. The Doppler machine will enable medical personnel to record the health of patient’s legs before and after the use of preventative garments.


If you are local, this machine could help you or your family in the future. You can still help Jim reach his target.



Thank you to Peter Cutts for the lovely photos.


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