GVA Team Takes on the Wharf – Wellness Walk 2026
Yesterday, around 40 walkers from across the National Highways supply chain laced up their trainers and set off on foot for a very special cause: the 2026 GVA Wellness Walk, “Race to the Wharf.” Colleagues from GVA, National Highways, Crown Highways, Winvic, Amey, McCann, Concrete Repairs, NRC WWS and M Group, all attended for the event, bringing the wider industry community together for a shared cause.
The event brought together two teams from opposite corners of the North West and North East, each covering an impressive 17 miles on their way to a shared finish line at The Wharf, Deansgate, in the heart of Manchester.
Two Routes, One Goal
Setting off together at 8 am, the Yorkshire North East Team began their journey at Littleborough Railway Station, following the canal path down through Rochdale, Middleton and Failsworth before arriving in the city. Meanwhile, the North West Team started from National Highways’ Atlantic House in Warrington, tracing a scenic canal-side route through Irlam, Urmston and Sale before joining up in Manchester.
After a full day on their feet, battling warm weather and staying hydrated with welcome pitstops from the GVA welfare vans, both teams crossed the finish line within 10-minutes of each other:
🥇 Yorkshire North East Team – finishing at 3:00 pm
🥈 North West Team – finishing at 3:07 pm
Walking for a Cause That Matters
The Wellness Walk was held in support of Aching Arms’ OFFLOAD campaign, which provides vital support to dads in the construction industry who have experienced pregnancy or baby loss. The campaign works to raise awareness, expand support services, and foster industry-wide conversations so that no dad has to carry the weight of baby loss alone.
Thanks to the generosity of walkers, colleagues and supporters, the event raised an incredible £1,355 and counting for the campaign.
More Than a Walk
Beyond the miles and the money raised, the day was about connection. Colleagues from across GVA, National Highways, Crown Highways, Winvic, Amey and other supply chain partners came together, formed new relationships, and had honest, open conversations along the way — embodying exactly the kind of support that OFFLOAD champions.
Today, there may be a few aching joints, blisters and a bit of sunburn to show for it, but the GVA team is basking in the glory of a brilliant team effort for a brilliant cause.
A huge thank you to everyone who walked, volunteered, donated, and cheered the teams on — across GVA, Crown Highways, Winvic, Amey, McCann, Concrete Repairs, NRC WWS and M Group. Well done, team!
Donations to the Aching Arms OFFLOAD campaign are still welcome — every contribution helps ensure bereaved dads get the support they deserve.
