Support charity which runs Wisbech treatment centre by joining memory walk

People are being invited to take part in a special walk to remember loved ones and raise vital funds for charity.

Organised by Arthur Rank Hospice Charity, which runs Wisbech's Alan Hudson Day Treatment Centre, the Star Shine Walk will take place in May to raise much needed funds for hospice care across the area.

Unfortunately, many of the charity's fundraising activities have been brought to a halt due to the pandemic, which is why events such as the walk are so important to support the charity's overall running costs.

Due to the pandemic, this year's event will be held virtually for the second time in its 13 years, which means that teams of colleagues, friends and families can get involved, no matter how far apart they’re based.

Angeline Liles, events officer at Arthur rank Hospice Charity, said: "We have found that people taking part in Star Shine Walk treasure the event as a unique opportunity to actively remember, honour and celebrate the life of someone they love.

"The beauty of it being a virtual event again this year means anyone can take part wherever in the county, country or world they live. Teams can even set off at the same time if they like.

"You can also plan your route to take in places of particular significance, or landmarks that are related to special memories."

This year, the charity's running costs will total £8.56 million, with more than £4 million of this needing to be raised through donations, fundraising and retail.

The funding goes towards the charity's work in providing care and support to more than 4,100 patients each year at the Hospice in Cambridge , the Alan Hudson Day Treatment Centre in Wisbech and in patients’ own homes via the Arthur Rank Community Team. Services are provided free of charge to patients and their families, helping them to make every moment count.

Last year's memory walk raised more than £40,000 which is the equivalent of 67 visits by the charity’s Hospice at Home team.

The charity is hoping for another incredible turn out this year, where participants will be challenged with completing a 5, 10 or 20 mile distance over the weekend of May 22 and May 23.

They can chose to walk, skip, wheel, trundle, scoot, walk the dog or even dance their way around at any time and location.

Fenland Citizen editor Jeremy Ransome and his wife Josi, a health care assistant for the home hospice, will also be taking part in the event.

Jeremy is embarking on the 20 mile challenge and Josi is taking on the 10 mile challenge.

Jeremy said: "I am so proud of my wife working for such an incredible, worthwhile charity and delighted to be able to do something myself to raise money for their important work.

"I have been in training for the walk and will probably do it from my home in Lutton to my mum's house in King's Lynn, where I am guaranteed a good reception!"

The charity’s expert fundraising team will support everyone taking part and fun approaches to covering the distance are heartily encouraged, including optional fancy dress.

Registration costs £17 for adults and £15 for children (under 16 yrs).

Children under 10 are welcome to join for free but won’t receive a Walk Pack.

All other registrations received before May 16 will receive a pack, which will include a special edition event t-shirt and other goodies too.

Register now at www.arhc.org.uk/events/detail/star-shine-walk-2021/