ENTRIES are now open for the 10th anniversary of the annual Starlight Ladies Walk in aid of St Rocco’s Hospice, Warrington.
Lots of laughter accompanied lots of bubbles at the launch event for the 10th annual Starlight Ladies Walk when St. Rocco’s staff were joined by walkers
and marshals who have taken part for the full nine years to help launch this year’s event, which takes place at midnight on June 19.
Celia Beddall from Old Orford walks every year in memory of her son Jonathan, who passed away in the Hospice in 2003. She is joined at the events by daughter-in-law Jayne Beddall, from Winwick, who was married to Jonathan for just five months before he died.
Celia said: “Even after all this time, the walk still feels totally unique. The atmosphere is incredible, everyone pulls together, and the support from the town on the night is amazing. Jayne and I can’t imagine ever not doing The Starlight Walk – as long as we can, we will.”
Since its inception in 2006, the walk has seen 13,400 ladies take part, raising an incredible £1.6million to help St. Rocco’s provide care for those with life-limiting illnesses, and their families.
Rosemary Lamb from Appleton Thorne has taken part in the walk since it first started, raising over £2,000. She said: “That first event was probably my favourite because it was the first time I experienced the amazing atmosphere, and that memory has stayed with me. I still enjoy every minute, every year.”
The Hospice is also appealing for volunteer marshals for the event. Dave Van De Gruchy of Knutsford Road, who has volunteered every year since 2007, said: “It doesn’t matter what the weather is like on the night – seeing everyone enjoying themselves and knowing I am keeping them safe is what keeps me coming back every year.”
This year’s walk will take place at Orford Jubilee Neighbourhood Hub, and to mark both its 10th birthday and the 30th anniversary of the Hospice, the theme will be ‘a night to celebrate’. For more information or to register as either a walker or volunteer, visit www.starlightwalk.co.uk
Top picture shows (clockwise L-R) Dave Van De Gruchy, Celia Beddall, Jayne Beddall, Rosemary Lamb, Pam Massey (CEO), Alison White (Matron), Lauren Tilston and Sophie Birch (Fundraisers)
