Here is a chance to put your best foot forward this weekend, as FirstLight invites members of the farming community to enjoy the beautiful Barrow River with family and friends while supporting the critical services provided to suddenly bereaved families.

The 17km walk organised to raise funds for FirstLight not only offers participants the opportunity to immerse themselves in nature, but also enables them to make a difference to the lives of grieving families.

As the leading national charity providing crisis interventions and support to suddenly bereaved parents and families who have suffered the loss of a child, the work that FirstLight does is extremely important.

This is stressed by the fact that, on average, between 2006 and 2015, two to three children were killed on farm accidents each year. The main causes of fatal accidents involving youngsters are in relation to drowning, tractor or machinery incidents.

Speaking to Fionnuala Sheehan, chief executive officer of FirstLight, she outlined that the event has been running for a number of years and that her organisation hopes people will join in on the occasion.

“We are keen to encourage people to come along to support the day and to help raise money. The event is open to the public, and it is for a very good cause. FirstLight is unique in Ireland, offering a therapeutic service to those who have been bereaved, with the funds going directly to help parents and families who are dealing with the loss of an infant or a child,” said Fionnuala.

FirstLight receives some funding from Tusla and relies on the generosity of its corporate supporters, volunteers and the general public.

Funds raised from the event will be applied to the provision of critical services delivered by FirstLight, which are provided nationwide and are free of charge. These include crisis intervention, individual counselling and psychotherapy, couple counselling and psychotherapy, a structured residential group, home visits, a befriending service and a national lo-call helpline.

Walkers are requested to assemble in St Mullins on Saturday 23 September at 10.30am. From this point they will be collected by bus and escorted to Borris, where the walk begins. The walking path is green, mostly level and those participating are advised to wear suitable footwear and to bring a rain jacket, small rucksack, snack food and drinks.

Participants are encouraged to register on www.firstlight.ie. The registration fee is €20, which covers transport to Borris and refreshments at the half way point in Graignamanagh, and on completion of the walk at St Mullins. CL