Nearly 600 people stepped out into the summer evening to help Prospect Hospice reach a remarkable fundraising milestone as this year’s Starlight Walk brought in more than £100,000 for local hospice care.
The annual event, now in its 18th year, saw supporters gather at The Deanery School in Wichelstowe on Saturday, 27 June, before setting off on either the 10km or 15km route. Clad in bright pink event T-shirts, walkers of all ages turned the streets into a sea of colour, united by a shared determination to support one of Swindon’s most valued charities.
The total has already topped £100,000, with sponsorship money continuing to arrive in the days following the event. Every penny raised will help Prospect Hospice continue providing free specialist care and support to patients and families across Swindon, Marlborough and North Wiltshire, whether in the hospice itself or in people’s own homes.
Ben Lee, Head of Relationship Fundraising at Prospect Hospice, said: “It was fantastic to see nearly 600 people come together for the 18th Starlight Walk. The atmosphere on the night was incredibly special, full of energy, reflection and community spirit. Thanks to the amazing support of our community, we’ve already raised over £100,000, which will help us continue providing compassionate care for local patients and families.”
The Starlight Walk has become a firm fixture in the local calendar, attracting families, friends, neighbours and workmates who come together not only to raise money but also to remember loved ones and celebrate the care the hospice provides throughout the community.
For Grace Thornton, the evening carried particular significance. She completed the walk in memory of her grandad, who had been cared for by Prospect Hospice.
She said: “Taking part in the Starlight Walk meant so much to me. I was walking in memory of someone very special, and being surrounded by others doing the same was incredibly moving. Prospect Hospice supported us during such a difficult time, and this felt like a fun way to give something back.”
As dusk settled over Swindon, there were moments of quiet reflection alongside laughter and conversation, underlining why the Starlight Walk remains one of the hospice’s best-supported fundraising events. The evening served as a reminder that behind every donation is a family who has benefited from the care, comfort and dignity Prospect Hospice provides.
With fundraising still ongoing, hospice staff have thanked everyone who walked, volunteered or sponsored participants, saying the generosity shown by the local community will help ensure vital hospice services remain available for those who need them most.
