Mortgage pros stride for mental health on Thames Bridges Trek

Mortgage industry pros from Crystal Specialist Finance, Market Financial Solutions, Movin Legal, MT Finance, United Trust Bank and Mortgage Soup went the distance at the weekend taking part in the Thames Bridges Trek and raising awareness for mental health in the sector.

On Saturday the walkers set off from Putney Bridge, tackling 25km and 13 of London’s most iconic bridges including Fulham Railway Bridge; Wandsworth Bridge; Battersea Bridge; Albert Bridge; Chelsea Bridge and Vauxhall Bridge.

Then from the Oval Cricket Ground pit stop it was on to Golden Jubilee Bridges; Waterloo Bridge; Blackfriars Bridge; Southwark Bridge; London Bridge and finally Tower Bridge and on to a party-style finish at Southwark Park.

A new 10km Thames walk option also offered a more accessible route along the capital’s famous river.

BUILDING THE FOUNDATION

Jason Berry, group sales director at Crystal Specialist Finance, told Mortgage Soup: “The 25km Thames Trek was more than a walk – it was a stride forward for mental health and wellbeing in our sector.

“Thanks to the unwavering support of colleagues across the mortgage industry, the Mortgage Industry Mental Health Charter is set to evolve into the MIMHC Foundation, ensuring we’re equipped to serve the needs of our mortgage community for years to come.”

Jason Berry, Crystal Finance, Robyn Hall, Mortgage Soup — Trailblazing: Jason Berry, group sales director at Crystal Specialist Finance and Mortgage Soup director Robyn Hall.

CHANCE TO BOND

For Market Financial Solutions, the trek offered a chance to bond as well as support a cause close to the industry’s heart.

Andy Cameron and Karen Rodrigues, Market Financial Solutions — Andy Cameron and Karen Rodrigues of Market Financial Solutions at the finish line in Southwark Park.

Chief sales officer Karen Rodrigues and colleague Andy Cameron took part in the 10k option.

She said: “For me it was great to spend time with a member of my team and talk about everything non-work related – it was great to spend time with Andy and boy did we talk!

“We discussed his life in Australia, the countries he has lived in, and how Covid impacted things – hard to believe that’s over five years ago.

“I also learnt all about the immigration system here in the UK and the steps he and others have to go through legally to get here.”

Cameron, business development executive at Market Financial Solutions, added that the event was a perfect way to combine fitness, conversation and connection.

The walk offered unrivalled views of London’s skyline and a chance to reflect on wellbeing while navigating historic bridges.

Tower Bridge: Opened in 1894, it was considered the most sophisticated of its type in the world. In 1952 while the bridge was opening the number 78 double decker bus was Stilton it so had to accelerate and it managed to make the jump.

TIME TO CONNECT

Emma and Robyn Hall finish line — Emma and Robyn Hall at the Southwark Park finish line.

Emma Hall, key relationship director at Movin Legal, said: “The Thames Bridges Trek was a brilliant way to really connect with people across the mortgage industry.

“Walking 25km gives you plenty of time to chat, share experiences and build relationships beyond the usual work calls and emails.

“It was inspiring to see so many colleagues supporting mental health while getting to know each other better – a reminder that our industry is at its strongest when we take the time to connect.”

Main picture: Left to right: Alex ‘Bingo’ Taylor; Oliver Berry; Hannah Oades; Jason Berry; Emma Hall and Robyn Hall. Inset: Andy Cameron and Karen Rodrigues.

PICTURES FROM THE DAY