Plymouth turned bright pink on August 20 as a thousand participants came together to walk across the city, raising vital funds for St Luke’s Hospice Plymouth.
Faces both familiar and new were welcomed to its hotly anticipated mass participation fundraising event, Midnight Walk, following the sponsored walk’s cancellation last year because of the pandemic. So popular was the event in aid of the compassionate care the hospice provides across Plymouth and surrounding areas that it was a complete sell-out.
Setting off from Plymouth Argyle’s Home Park Stadium, everyone followed either a five, 10 or 15-mile route taking in many Plymouth landmarks, including Smeaton’s Tower and the Barbican. And when the challenge got tough, moral support came in abundance from the spectators who cheered them on from their front gardens and the passing motorists who tooted their horns in solidarity.
The event, sponsored by GA Solicitors, saw many participants walking in memory of lost loved ones, having fun and making new memories as they celebrated the lives of people special to them who will never be forgotten.
Head of fundraising at St Luke’s, Penny Hannah, said:
“After the disappointment of having to cancel last year’s Midnight Walk due to COVID-19 safety measures, this year’s event felt even more special. For some taking part, it was the first opportunity they have had to reunite with family and friends since losing a loved one during the past 18 months, which have been so incredibly tough for everyone going through bereavement. It was also important for us to remember the five people whose lives were tragically taken in Keyham, and think of their loved ones, too.
“We are so grateful to everyone who took part. Sponsorship money raised helps keep our team on the road 365 days a year, giving their compassionate care to patients in the comfort of their own home and supporting their families – all of which helps make our community a kinder place for people living and dying with terminal illness and for those close to them as well.”
For more information about St Luke’s specialist end of life care visit www.stlukes-hospice.org.uk
