NEARLY 600 families and friends joined this year's Walk to Remember to raise money for St Mary's Hospice in Ulverston.
Friday night's event started at the Better Leisure Centre in Ulverston after a warm-up led by Clare Paling.
Jay Broome and vocalists Ade White, Kev Thompson and Talia Rae Brumbley provided live entertainment for the walkers. Food and refreshments were available, with a face painting and even a photo booth to capture memories of the event.
An official countdown marked the start of the walk, which began at 8pm. Boom Dang created a carnival-like atmosphere with drums and a firework display. Ulverston Fire Brigade led the participants out to start their walk to Furness Academy in Barrow.
The journey included a stop at the halfway point which was Our Lady Rosary Catholic Primary School in Dalton. Charnley’s Home & Garden and Tesco Barrow Community provided snacks and drinks for the walkers. Volunteer marshals provided guidance and support while St Mary's care staff offered encouragement at checkpoints along the route.
Hospice supporter Karen, who was walking in sister Gayle’s memory, said: "We’ve raised over £1,000 on just giving and more, we are hoping for £1,500. It’s going to be an emotional night."
Savannah, walking for the first time said: "My grandad last year had the Hospice at Home nurses, they were just lovely amazing people.”
READ MORE: St Mary's Hospice says it needs to raise £2.2 million this year
Savannah’s friend Kate added: “My grandad was an inpatient at the end of his life. It made a difference to our family it was a lovely atmosphere we could all be there together. Especially the views from his room. Out of a sad time it was a nice experience.”
Helen Carlson, head of income generation at the hospice, said: "Walk to Remember was born to create a safe space for our community to come together to reflect, to support and celebrate the lives of those who although may not be by our side, will be forever in our hearts. Tonight is a tribute to our loved ones and also promises to leave a lasting legacy in their name. Eight out of every 10 patients we care for are paid for by voluntary income. Walk to Remember raises thousands of pounds each and every year which means we can promise to be here for those who will need us tomorrow.”
Hospice staff member Solveig said: "Thank you! I am nearly speechless which is very unusual! But I want to say a huge thank you from all of us who work at St Mary’s we couldn’t do what we are doing without your help... You help us to keep doing what we do by showing such overwhelming support. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.”
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