Starting out on Monday 14 September, staff from Savills offices across the country covered thousands of miles through non-motorised means, including walking, cycling and canoeing.

Across the south east, teams from the company’s Maidstone, Petworth and Haywards Heath offices took part in a 5.5 mile run from Chichester to West Dean on Monday, a six mile walk starting and finishing at Knepp Castle on Tuesday, and a three mile walk around Petworth Park on Wednesday. On Friday a team undertook a 40 mile cycle ride through the South Downs, from Parham Park, near Storrington, via Petworth to Goodwood House.

Each journey took participants through estates managed by Savills and Savills incorporating Smiths Gore, including Knepp Castle, the Leconfield Estate and the Cowdray Estate. The national event culminated with regional teams cycling into London on Friday 18 September to meet at Savills headquarters in Margaret Street.

Ben Wood, from Savills incorporating Smiths Gore Petworth, said: “Countryside Learning is a very important charity with which Savills has a close relationship. It has been great to be part of an event that has not only helped to raise many thousands of pounds, but meant we could enjoy our beautiful countryside along the way.”

Countryside Learning has one aim: to educate, inform and inspire children, parents and teachers so that they can enjoy and appreciate the countryside whilst gain a greater understanding of the wide range of issues surrounding it. For nearly 30 years Countryside Learning has provided opportunities for teachers, parents and pupils to engage with the outdoor classroom on farms and estates across the UK.

Gary Richardson, chief executive, Countryside Learning, adds: “Thanks to the amazing support Savills has given us over the past three years, Countryside Learning has reached over 100,000 children and given them the opportunity to learn, experience and enthuse about the world around them. As a charity, thanks to Savills staff and their Herculean efforts, we can now grow further and enhance our work both in our capacity and geographical reach which is simply fantastic. Seldom is a charity able to find a partner who is so active, engaged and selfless in their support. The natural synergy that we have established with Savills has changed the way we are able to do business.”