Swindon’s streets were bathed in a vibrant orange glow on Saturday, 24th June, as locals came together to support a flagship fundraiser, the Starlight Walk.
More than 400 enthusiastic participants adorned themselves in colorful outfits, adding a touch of festivity to the event while showing their solidarity with the cause.
The Starlight Walk provided an opportunity for Swindon residents to honour and remember their loved ones who have passed away, while also raising funds for Prospect Hospice through various fundraising activities. The outpouring of generosity has been overwhelming, with this year’s sponsorship already surpassing the £50,000 raised in the previous year.
Carolyn Bell, the director of patient services at the charity, expressed her gratitude, saying, “A huge well done and thank you to everyone who participated in this year’s Starlight Walk, including all the volunteers who made this event possible. It was fabulous to see so many people walking to support Prospect Hospice. You are all amazing and we really couldn’t do what we do without you.”
“It was an incredible experience for everyone involved, and witnessing the festival vibe and the stunning outfits worn by our supporters was truly inspiring. Every penny raised will go towards the funds we need to run the hospice’s vital services providing care for many people at home and in the hospice. This includes nurses, doctors, therapists, social workers, carers, and bereavement support, all free of charge to patients and their families in Swindon and northeast Wiltshire.”
This year marked the fifteenth edition of the flagship fundraiser, with participants completing either a 10-kilometer or 15-kilometer walking route that commenced at the home of Swindon Town Football Club on County Road. Starting at 8:30 pm, the routes guided supporters from the Country Ground along Queens Drive to Coate Water, where a special remembrance garden provided a serene space to pay tribute to and celebrate the memory of loved ones.
The paths continued along Marlborough Road, with the 10-kilometer route taking Drove Road and the 15-kilometer route following Pipers Way towards Witchelstowe. Both routes converged on Drove Road, culminating at the County Ground to mark the end of an unforgettable night.
Robin Deller, the CEO of Imagine Cruising who sponsored the event, shared his enthusiasm, stating, “Prospect Hospice’s Starlight Walk took place this weekend and it was so great to see so many people involved; helping to raise money that will support vital care for those in Wiltshire living with a terminal illness. Having been a proud sponsor for several years, we were, once again, delighted to be a part of such a fantastic event.”
If you were unable to participate in the Starlight Walk, there are still numerous ways to support Prospect Hospice, including the Prospect Big Swim, Prospect Paddle, and Fire Walk. Visit www.prospect-hospice.net/events to find out more and sign up for these upcoming initiatives. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of those in need.
