Joan’s Walk in Allenby Park

102 laps by her 102nd birthday, Joan was an inspiration during the first lockdown of 2020. Here’s Joan’s story...

There is a new tree in Allenby Park, with a plaque: ‘Planted by Felixstowe Town Council in honour of retired nurse, Joan Rich. On her 102nd birthday Joan completed her mission of walking 102 laps of this park to raise funds for the NHS during the 2020 coronavirus pandemic.’ On display in Joan’s house are certificates from Felixstowe Town Council, the Royal British Legion, Felixstowe Branch, and a wall plaque awarded by the Royal Military Police, congratulating Joan. Joan, who worked at Felixstowe General Hospital, started her walk for NHS Charities on 22nd April 2020, the day Allenby Park gates re-opened. When she saw the ‘LOVE NHS’ motif in the grass, Joan wanted to help. The only way was to follow Captain Tom’s lead...