YOUNGSTERS from all over Warrington gathered at Orford Jubilee Hub to put their best foot forward raising funds to support patients being cared for by St. Rocco’s Hospice.
It was a magical evening of lights and excitement as the children, all holding brightly coloured lanterns, made their way along one mile course accompanied by the Manchester Samba Band and lots of grownups who had come to encourage the children along the way.
Disney princesses, Bat girl and of course Rocco, the hospice mascot, were also there to cheer the children on and pose for photos before the walk.
It wasn’t only the children and the samba band who were bedecked in lights. Over a hundred volunteers turned out to welcome the children, distribute the lanterns, marshall the route and hand out medals and goody bags at the end. This year many of them had gone the extra mile, by wearing fairy lights themselves.
“This is always a lovely event,” said Rachel Ingham, Fundraising Manager for St. Rocco’s, “These are our youngest supporters and it is great to see them wanting to help us look after our patients and families. They always bring lots of grownups with them and we think they enjoy it just as much as the children!
“We’re extremely grateful to all the volunteers, organisations, businesses and individuals who helped us to make this year’s Lantern Walk a success. Without the sponsorship raised at these kinds of events, we simply wouldn’t be able to continue with our care.”
If you missed the Lantern Walk, then there is another opportunity to shine a light for those we love through St. Rocco’s Light Up a Life appeal which invites members of the public to dedicate a light on the St. Rocco’s Christmas tree in return for a donation towards patient care. Find out more at http://www.stroccos.org.uk/events/light-up-a-life/ or call the Fundraising team on 01925 575780.
