Around 250 walkers took part in Willow Wood Hospice's Midnight Wander to put the fun back into fundraising.
The 10k sponsored walk was held on Friday and, like every Midnight Wander since the first in 2007, had the most amazing atmosphere.
Event organiser Laura Marinelli said: “Everyone really threw themselves into the spirit of the walk, we had teams dressed as bees, teams wearing pink wigs, teams in bunny ears or stetsons, tutus and much more. It just felt so wonderful to be able to meet up together and take part in an event like this – it’s the first fundraiser we’ve held after lockdown and all our Midnight Wanderers came prepared for a great night out.
“And I’d like to thank everyone at Astley Sports Village for their help and support, not just tonight but in the weeks leading up to the event. Mark’s been brilliant as has the whole team.”
The route had a number of marshal points along the way and a team of motorcycle marshals to ensure the walk went smoothly.
Check out our photo album below from the event. Images by James Sullivan.
- Willow Wood Midnight Wander 230721 (1)
- Willow Wood Midnight Wander 230721 (2)
- Willow Wood Midnight Wander 230721 (3)
- Willow Wood Midnight Wander 230721 (4)
- Willow Wood Midnight Wander 230721 (5)
- Willow Wood Midnight Wander 230721 (6)
- Willow Wood Midnight Wander 230721 (7)
- Willow Wood Midnight Wander 230721 (8)
- Willow Wood Midnight Wander 230721 (9)
- Willow Wood Midnight Wander 230721 (10)
- Willow Wood Midnight Wander 230721 (11)
- Willow Wood Midnight Wander 230721 (12)
- Willow Wood Midnight Wander 230721 (13)
- Willow Wood Midnight Wander 230721 (14)
- Willow Wood Midnight Wander 230721 (15)
- Willow Wood Midnight Wander 230721 (16)
Laura added: “I must give a special mention to the Spartan MCC who rode up and down the route safeguarding our walkers. I’ve had many comments from participants all saying how they appreciated the bikers and how lovely they were. They, and the marshals who stood at particularly busy points and crossings, did a fantastic job; thanks to our staff, volunteers and Trustees who helped us in this way.
“And thanks to the catering team from Food from Scratch who made the very welcome hot breakfast butties for the walkers on their return, to the Coffee Pod and the Sweetest Feeling Candy Cart. They all helped make our Midnight Wander very special.”
It really was an enjoyable evening; as the walkers returned to collect their medals many were asking if they could sign up for next year!
However it must not be forgotten that the Midnight Wander is a fundraiser for Willow Wood, and the primary aim is to raise donations to help the Hospice care for patients and their families.
Laura said: “It’s too early to say just how much the event has raised, but we are hopeful that it will be around £20,000. If you do know anyone who took part there’s still time to sponsor them, or alternatively you can go to our website, www.willowwood.info and make a donation there.”
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