THREE charity walkers trekking their way around Wales in aid of Kidney Wales joined local supporters at Witybush Hospital’s renal unit last week.

As part of the Walk Around Wales, representatives from the charity aim to raise funds and awareness for the 10,000 patients living with kidney disease across the country.

Starting in Cardiff earlier this month, the 740km trek traverses clockwise around Wales, passing through Pembrokeshire, Aberystwyth and Wrexham.

A group of local fundraisers met the walkers and joined them between Haverfordwest Cricket Club and Withybush Hospital.

Secretary of Kidney Wales Haverfordwest, Emma Bourton, said: “It was a really good day and we had an excellent turnout.

“We then had a cheque presentation with Haverfordwest Tennis Club.”

At Withybush, the Kidney Wales team met nurses, patients, and their families to learn more about their experiences of living with kidney diseases.

The staff that run the centre led the fundraisers on a tour of the facility and spoke about their vital work.

Taking part in the gruelling walk is chief executive of Kidney Wales, Roy Thomas.

“This incredible charity is 50 years old this year and we wanted to mark the occasion in a very special way,” he said.

“From a personal point of view, this is without a doubt going to be one of the most challenging things I’ve ever taken on, but I know that at the same time it will be incredibly rewarding.

“Visiting the dialysis centres which facilitate the care and support needed so desperately by thousands of kidney patients across Wales will be a huge honour.”

After their stop at the hospital, the walkers headed north from Haverfordwest to Newport. The final leg takes place on May 17 as the group return to Cardiff.

Walk around Wales is one of many fundraisers taking place in 2017 to mark Kidney Wales’ 50th year.

Other upcoming events include the annual Cardiff 10K road race in September and the Walk for Life, which has been carried out for over 30 years and encourages families to embrace the outdoors while raising cash for the charity.