THERE has been a surge in donations as Worcester University’s leader steps out on his 175 mile walk on the world famous pilgrim’s path.
Prof David Green, the university’s vice chancellor and chief executive, started out from Porto to Santiago de Compostela in Spain on Thursday May 15 to raise cash for student scholarships and hardship funds.
Pledges and donations now total over £52,000 made up of £35,000 already gifted, including gift aid, and a further £17,500 pledged when Prof Green completes this epic walk on Thursday May 29.
Prof Carla Martins, the president of the Compostela Group of Universities of which Worcester is the only UK member, met Prof Green on the steps of Porto cathedral to wish him the traditional ‘Buen Camino’.
And leading religious figures from Worcester Cathedral gave their blessing to Prof Green before he left the UK.
Dr Stephen Edwards, the dean of Worcester Cathedral, and Bernard Longley, the archbishop of Birmingham, both offered their blessings and support. And while at the cathedral, Prof Green went to see the Worcester Pilgrim exhibition in the crypt – an inspiration for his journey.
Dr Edwards said: “David follows in the footsteps of thousands who across the centuries have made a pilgrimage to Compostela. It was good to bless his journey from the spot in Worcester where a 16th-century pilgrim is buried – a reminder of the cathedral’s importance as a place for pilgrimage, prayer and journey.”
The Worcester Pilgrim, discovered during an excavation at the cathedral in 1986, was identified as a pilgrim because of the staff, cockleshell, and walking boots which were found with his remains.
Prof Green, who served on the cathedral’s council for many years, said: “Worcester Cathedral is truly inspirational. Dean Stephen and members of the cathedral community have been so encouraging to the university and our students as well as for this cause.
“Some 97 per cent of our students are from state educated backgrounds. Many are first in family. Some are also carers. Most work part-time while studying.
“The opportunity to win a scholarship or get a helping hand when in real need makes all the difference to continuation and then success as a skilled professional who will contribute to economic growth, social cohesion and a more successful country.”
Visit www.justgiving.com/page/professor-david-green-compostela-challenge to donate.
