Scores of families turned Light Up The Night into a major triumph for East Cheshire Hospice. Around 600 walkers strolled past the tranquil setting of Capesthorne Hall before a firework display.
For many Friday’s event was a poignant occasion, remembering loved ones with special memory lanterns. Among them Susan Brown whose husband Tony (69) died last May and was treated by the charity’s Hospice @ Home service. Daughters Liz and Helen have helped raise £1,000 in their father’s memory.
The event is hoping to raise £70,000 and walkers are urged to return sponsorship monies by the end of the month if possible. Emma Cleek, from Tytherington, and daughter Lottie (7), a pupil at Marlborough Primary School, were joined by Emma’s sister Alex Fiddler. The trio were remembering auntie Val who died in a hospice two years ago.
Toby Beesley, whose mum Beth is a nurse at East Cheshire Hospice, was joined by Ollie Stubbens, Nicky Holmes and Georgie Vaughan. The walk was started by Hospice Patron Charlie Lawson, the former Coronation Street actor, while Hospice Chaplain Margaret Lillis led a minute’s reflection.
Round-the-world sailor Heather Broadbent spoke about her forthcoming challenge and Hospice links. Pam Webster, a Health Care Assistant at the Hospice, explained how every step and every pound raised makes a difference to patients.
The event was again sponsored by Ford dealers Sidney Jackson.
Jo Boyd, Events Manager at the Hospice, said: “We’d like to thank our sponsors and all those who helped in many different ways, including more than 50 volunteers. The venue is fantastic.
Fortunately the weather was kind and we hope everyone who came along enjoyed the event.”