8 inspiring pictures from Wolverhampton's Recovery Walk celebrating triumph over addictions
Rainshowers failed to dampen spirits as Wolverhampton played host to the Recovery Walk UK - an event celebrating people who have experienced addiction and turned over a new leaf.
The newly appointed Secretary of State for Work and Pensions Wolverhampton South East MP Pat McFadden and Mayor of Wolverhampton Councilor Craig Collingswood were on hand to wave the walkers on their way at the event held in the city's West Park off Pak Road West.
In his speech Councillor Collingswood told them: "It's fantastic to be here, to see such a wonderful turnout, to support such an important cause.
"It's an absolute privilege for me to stand before you here today as we in Wolverhampton host the UK Recovery Walk."
"Led by Favour UK, an addiction charity promoting recovery, we are so proud to be a key partner in bringing this national celebration of recovery to our city this year. The walk provides a reflection of the city's ongoing commitment to supporting those on their recovery journeys."
The event was organised by city charity Good Shepherd in partnership with Wolverhampton Voluntary and Community Action’s Service User Involvement Team, Wolverhampton Council and Recovery Near You after a successful bid to host the national gathering.
The family-friendly day featured live entertainment, community stalls and a show of solidarity for those on the journey of recovery from addictions.
Chris Cole, service manager at the Good Shepherd, said: “The most important thing of all is to give people a chance, a chance to improve themselves and to make a difference. Don’t give up on someone, be there for when they are ready to change.
“I am only here now doing what I am doing because people gave me a chance, and that is why I am so fortunate to be in this position where now it is me giving others a chance to take that step forward.”
Good Shepherd's chief executive Tom Hayden, who also serves the Wolverhampton Recovery Walk Partnership, said: “It was an absolutely incredible experience walking together through the streets of Wolverhampton. I can’t put into words what it means to me and the rest of the partnership to have such a fantastic turnout and celebration for those in recovery in our home city.”
