AN OUTDOOR charity has launched an online fundraiser to support West Somerset coastal schools with outdoor supply provision.

The King Charles III England Coast Path in Somerset is raising funds in aid of The Outdoor Guide Foundation’s Waterproofs and Wellies campaign.

In partnership, the two initiatives are hoping to raise £700 to purchase ten sets of outdoor kit for the two schools. The groups have already raised £71, mostly through a walk from Watchet to Minehead that took place during Watchet Walking Week.

Throughout the year, The Outdoor Guide Foundation will be organising walks to support the cause, including the 80 Miles in Eight Days Challenge Walk for 2025, planned for October.

A spokesperson for the charity said: “Getting outdoors and into nature is beneficial for your mental, physical and emotional health.

“But it's a sad fact that primary school children spend less time outdoors than prison inmates. It was on hearing this that The Outdoor Guide Foundation came into being and launched the Waterproofs and Wellies campaign

“With one third of primary school aged children coming from households that live below the poverty line, there is little money for the essentials in life, let alone for outdoor gear.

“The Waterproofs and Wellies campaign is raising funds to provide every state primary school in the country with at least 10 sets of waterproof jackets, trousers and wellington boots of varying sizes to ensure every child has the ability to play outdoors in all weathers.”

The donations will be given to two chosen schools from those registered with the foundation’s scheme. The schools are yet to be decided on.

The Outdoor Guide Foundation is the charitable arm of The Outdoor Guide, a free walking resource started by TV Presenter and walking guru Julia Bradbury and her Sister Gina.