STAFF at a Herefordshire pub have completed a 30-mile hike along the Mortimer Trail to help the hospitality industry.

Staff of the Riverside Inn in Aymestrey complete the walk to raise money for Hospitality Action.

Due to the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic, the hospitality industry has suffered after being forced to close for large parts of the last year.

The charity was set up to help support those in the industry who have lost employment, or who are suffering from a mental or physical illness.

Andy Link, chef at The Riverside Inn and his staff have raised £600 by completing the 30-mile hike.

“This walk has been a very positive thing for us all,” said Mr Link.

“It was a great experience to spend time together – in a socially distanced fashion – away from the workplace. And knowing we were helping others in our industry was very satisfying.

“Hospitality Action is a fantastic charity, designed to help get people in our industry back on their feet. “The pandemic has been a tragedy for many people, and we have the utmost sympathy for those who have lost loved ones.

"The hospitality industry has suffered a huge blow, with thousands of jobs lost, and many pubs and restaurant faced with permanent closure.

"In a rural area, the village pub is the beating heart of the local community."

Mr Link said that the Riverside have have been 'overwhelmed' by the support from their regular customers during this time.

The Mortimer Trail is a historic walk from Ludlow to Kington, taking in Whitcliff, Richard’s Castle, Orleton, Croft Ambrey and Wapley Hill Fort – with the Riverside Inn as a convenient halfway point.

“We split into two groups of six, and the teams included myself, our front-of-house manager, members of the housekeeping team and chefs,” added Mr Link.

“We were so lucky to have fantastic weather, and the views were glorious.

"We spotted plenty of wildlife along the way. It’s a trail I’d definitely recommend.”

Anybody who wishes to donate can do so via their JustGiving page: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/andy-link?fbclid=IwAR1YZlcGauugome_aa3zdEOQ_qaf1O_Zcf-8us5hVJeojG4jvpLSAl1sEEc