Home / Lifestyle / Widower Finds Solace in Nature Walks, Publishes Local Guide
Widower Finds Solace in Nature Walks, Publishes Local Guide
16 Oct
Summary
- Tragic loss of first wife inspires regular "Walk for Wendy" group hikes
- Walking helps man process emotions and connect with others
- Passion for outdoors leads to publishing series of local walking guides
As of October 2025, Will Hetherington, a resident of Rutland, has found solace and purpose in the outdoors following the tragic loss of his first wife, Wendy, in 2017. Wendy's sudden passing was an enormous shock, leaving Will to grapple with what he describes as "complicated grief."
However, a remark made at Wendy's funeral about a long walk the couple had once enjoyed together sparked an idea. Will decided to organize a group hike in her memory, and to his surprise, 60 people turned up for that first "Walk for Wendy" event. The walks have since grown into a regular occurrence, providing Will and others a chance to process their emotions and connect over shared experiences.
Will's passion for the outdoors has even led him to publish a series of books about walking routes in the local Rutland area. He recently joined Clare, a BBC presenter, on a six-mile loop through the Chater Valley, sharing his story and the positive impact that these nature walks have had on his life.
