On Saturday 27th April, Salisbury Hospice Charity welcomed 343 walkers at Five Rivers Leisure Centre to take on our annual Midnight Walk event in a fun, yet incredibly moving sponsored walk to raise vital funds for Salisbury Hospice.
Every walker, marshal and volunteer was dressed in vibrant neon outfits, all set to illuminate the streets of Salisbury as they embarked on their chosen 6 or 10-mile route. The event kicked off with an energetic warm-up led by Beth Whitworth on stage, with DJ Kev accompanying from Radio Odstock.
Speeches began with heartfelt words spoken by Charity Patron, The Countess of Pembroke, followed by an inspirational speech from Nikki Spicer, Chair of Trustees of Salisbury Hospice Charity. Before the well-known countdown of “Three, two, one – Glow!” created a sense of unity as the 343 set off.
Cheers echoed along the route from our dedicated volunteers and from people who came out of their homes, which kept our walkers’ spirits high and motivated even in the most challenging of weather conditions. Entertainment from the stars of Circus Wessex along with Jonathan Jester made the Midnight Walk atmosphere even more convivial with a carnival type feel.
At Salisbury Cathedral’s west door all the walkers were invited to light and dedicate a candle in remembrance of a loved one, and were able to write a personal message of reflection, in a dedicated memory book
Many participants opted to display on their t-shirt their reason for walking, memories of a beloved individuals and some of the wonderful hospice staff.
Despite the torrential and relentless rain, the walkers returned drenched and smiling, filled with a strong sense of accomplishment and determination to support Salisbury Hospice in their mission to raise vital funds.
At the finish line, walkers had the opportunity to pass through a unique Midnight Walk colour-changing arch, a special creation by Ozweld International. All the walkers were presented with a living medal, a packet of Forget Me Not seeds to sow at home as a memory before gratefully indulging a hot drink and a tasty bacon bap from The Wood Bar. In addition, walkers also had the option to receive a massage from a team of complementary therapists to soothe achy feet.
The funds raised from Midnight Walk will enable the hospice to continue providing the vital, end of life care, which directly benefit patients and families within the community.
Salisbury Hospice Charity would like to thank all the participants, volunteers, and support we have received to put on this ‘glow’tastic event. A special thank you goes to our sponsor Webbed Feet.
Greig Futcher, Events Fundraiser had the following to say:
“I am completely overwhelmed by the support and attendees on the night as the weather wasn’t at its best! It’s astonishing to see £42k has been raised from Midnight Walk. Even after walkers who had been out on the course for several hours in the wet and cold crossed the finish line with huge smiles on their faces, some were even laughing! A huge thank you to all the volunteers and most importantly every walker who pounded the streets, who without, this event would not have been possible. The support we received from our sponsor and individuals such as Beth Whitworth ‘queen’ of the warm-up.
I am excited to announce that Midnight Walk is back for 2025 with a passion on Saturday 26th April. Get ready to step out in your sparkles and rock the town in style in next year’s Glitter and Glam-rock theme.”
Sign up for Midnight Walk 2025 here
