THE biggest annual sponsored event organised by Willowbrook Hospice reaches its 10th anniversary this year – and the charity is appealing for local people to sign up to help them celebrate
The Moonlight Walk first took place in 2007, when a proud parade of more than 500 people wound its way around St Helens and Knowsley. l
Over the years since, this special event has welcomed thousands of people – including men and children – all united in remembering their loved ones whilst raising vital funds for the charity.
This year’s event takes place on Saturday 18 June 2016, and features a 10km route – a km for every year.
There is also the option of a 6.5km family-friendly route, both starting and finishing at the hospice’s new Living Well building on Borough Road, St Helens.
Among those striding out will be Annette Peers and her niece, Helen Greenway who’ve taken part in 5 walks over the past decade.
Annette says: “I used to volunteer at a couple of the hospice’s charity shops and have been taking part in the walk since 2012. It’s always such a brilliant atmosphere on the night – everyone is chatting and laughing and comparing notes on their outfits.
“What’s really moving is seeing all the different messages on people’s T-shirts,” she said. “They’re walking for mums, dads, grandmas, friends – all kinds of special people being remembered. Willowbrook is such a wonderful charity and you know that every penny you raise goes to help support local people and their families.”
Diane Humphreys, senior fundraiser at Willowbrook and Moonlight Walk organiser, is urging walkers old and new to come together and join in the 10th anniversary celebrations this summer.
She said: “To mark a decade of the Moonlight Walk, we’re going all out to make it a fantastic, fun event for all the family – they’ll be singers, dancers and even a samba band to get people in the party mood. To help us celebrate we’re asking people to round up their friends and family and sign up together to show their support.
“All the money raised will be used to provide our specialised care for local people who need us.
“Every single penny helps us to raise the £4m we need each and every year to be able to continue to deliver our services at the hospice.”
Registration is £15 for adults and £5 for under 18s with a special group rate of £35 (2 adults and up to 3 children).
You can enter online* at www.eventbrite.com (search for The Moonlight Walk) or pick up an entry form at your local Willowbrook charity shop, The Living Well or the hospice. You can also register over the phone by ringing 01744 453798.
*Processing fees apply for online entries.
