Fancy a trip to New York? Go to Barcelona

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It is that time of year again, when we get to travel, sightsee and even do some good for society.

Gay rights organisation Stonewall is inviting the public to join the Barcelona Equality Walk, which takes place between 11th and 13th July.

Last year’s walk raised more than £50,000 and it is hoped that this year will be equally fruitful.

All funds raised will go to the organisation’s Education for All campaign, which fights homophobic bullying in Britain’s schools.

Stonewall’s School Report released last year found that 65 per cent of lesbian, gay and bisexual pupils have experienced direct bullying and 97 per cent heard homophobic remarks at school.

One in three gay students reported that it is actually adults who are responsible for homophobic incidents in their school.

To raise more awareness of the issue Stonewall has introduced a new slogan, ‘Some people are gay. Get over it!’.

This new in-your-face campaign is supported by politicians and celebrities alike.

It is was also recently featured on TV show Hollyoaks, when character Kris Fisher wore the slogan on his t-shirt.

The fun-filled Barcelona weekend kicks off with a pool party on the Friday evening at Axel hotel’s rooftop.

The 10km walk starts on Saturday morning.

Participants walk in teams while taking part in a treasure hunt around the fabulous sights of Barcelona. The day then ends with a prize-giving ceremony for the winners.

Sunday is left free for personal shopping or extra sightseeing, but participants can join in an optional social brunch arranged by Stonewall, before flying home.

The non-returnable participation fee of £300 includes return flights and two nights accommodation at Axel hotel.

Stonewall recommends participants raise an additional £400 in sponsorship.

The top fundraiser will win a trip for two to New York, which includes return business class flights and accommodation, kindly sponsored by British Airways and the Royalton Hotel.

If you have problems thinking of ideas to raise the sponsorship money, Michaela Greene, deputy fundraising director for Stonewall, says it is not as hard as it seems.

“If the sponsorship seems a lot to raise, fear not – we’ve got loads of ideas to help you out.

“This has worked really well for participants from previous years who initially thought they’d have problems reaching their fundraising targets – but exceeded them after taking on ideas from our weekly fundraising bulletins.”

For fundraising ideas call 020 7593 1874.

Click here for more information and an application form for the Barcelona walk.