PULL on your trainers and steps out with Willow Wood on their sponsored Twilight Wander later this year.
The popular event will take place on Friday, September 2 and this year has been updated and revamped, including a new route.
Mark Llewellin, vice-chair of the board of trustees and acting head of fundraising, explained: “Our first Midnight Wander was back in 2007 and immediately became one of our most enjoyable and popular events.
“Initially it was for ladies only but over the years we opened it up, and now the whole family is welcome – including the dog!
“As we’ve extended the age range we also decided to start walking earlier to make it even more of a family event. So this year we’ll be setting off at 9pm for the 10k walk.”
Last year’s event raised £30,000 for the Ashton-based hospice, which provides free specialist palliative care for adults with life limiting illnesses.
Laura Marinelli, event organiser, added: “Last year we had a good number of families taking part and it was lovely to see just how much they enjoyed the event.
“We’re starting again from Astley Sports Village and there will be stalls, merchandise and music before the event, not to mention raffles and refreshments.
“When you return at the end, there’ll be a hot sausage sandwich waiting – with veggie and vegan alternatives also available.
“We’ve listened to, and acted on, feedback from last year’s walk and now have a new route, part of which is though Dukinfield Golf Club.
“We’ll have a couple of comfort stops along the way and will be providing bottled water too.”
The Hospice is looking for volunteers to marshal the route, directly participants the right way and checking they have all crossed roads and got to check points safely.
Mark said: “I was a volunteer marshal last year and found it great fun. It was good to chat to our supporters, hear stories of our care from relatives and meet some of our day patients – and to give a bit of encouragement if the walkers were flagging.
“The marshals are also there to help participants cross roads safely, to send them in the right direction at major junctions and to check that all the walkers have passed by.
“They’re also in contact with the team back at Astley Sports Village and with our first aiders too, just to ensure that the Twilight Wander is conducted as safely as possible.”
• Find out more and book online at www.willowwood.info or pick up a form from any of the hospice’s shops or reception.