More than 400 walkers defied wet and chilly conditions at a Starlight Walk at Capesthorne Hall.
The East Cheshire Hospice event was a major triumph on a night of nostalgia for the Hospice.
The walk returned to the venue for the first time since 2019 and saw the biggest turnout for a Hospice event since pre-Covid.
The Starlight Walk at Capesthorne Hall.
Challenge Events co-ordinator Bethan Wade was thrilled with its success. She said: “It was great to have everyone back together again at such a fabulous location which is a big part of the walk’s history.
“The pandemic prevented gatherings of this scale and tonight our loyal supporters are back in large numbers raising thousands of pounds for the Hospice. We’ve lots of suppliers here and Hospice merchandise is available.”
Health care assistant Pam Webster told walkers how vital funds are providing care for patients.
The dusk walk, sponsored by Ford dealers Sidney Jackson, saw participants cover a 2.5km loop through woodland carpeted with bluebells.
Curtis Connors and Leah Hrywnak with cocker spaniel Lola Bear.
For many it was an emotional journey remembering lost loved ones.
Nicola John, from Macclesfield, honoured mum Suzanne Kerr (68) who died of lung and oesophageal cancer several weeks ago. Nicola was joined by daughter Alice, aged 10.
Nicola John and daughter Alice.
Suzanne, an HR employee at HMP Styal, spent five weeks as a patient at the Hospice. Late relatives Ivor and Christine Bardsley were also treated there.
Alice said: “My granny was amazing and it’s nice that we can remember her tonight. We’re hoping to do four laps of the course and aren’t worried about the rain.”
Nicola and Suzanne did the walk several years ago dressed in pink tutus.
Walkers getting in the mood at Capesthorne Hall.
Leah Hrywnak and partner Curtis Connors sported the Ukrainian flag on their tops. Leah’s family are from Kiev and her late grandad, known as Wolly, was cared for by the Hospice.
Leah said: “I’ve still got relatives who are safe and well thankfully in Ukraine and it’s heart-breaking what’s happening over there.” Her uncle Wayne Baxter was also a Hospice patient.
Members of Kelly Marie Fitness.
Fitness trainer Kelly Marie Hancock was joined by eight fellow members of her exercise group who work out in her back garden in Bollington.
All were remembering lost friends and relatives, including Sirje whose late mum Karen Green was a daycare patient.
Louise Delany (left) and Colette Sharpe.
There was plenty of canine company for walkers with Romanian rescue dog Murphy accompanying Hospice commercial manager Louise Delany and friend Colette Sharpe, a teacher at Macclesfield Academy.
Ready for the off…walkers at the start line. 
Walkers enjoying the scenic route.
Back to all newsThank you so much for choosing to support East Cheshire Hospice. You may never know how much your gift means, but we know that it will make the world of difference to our patients and their families.
