A party atmosphere tinged with emotion made the latest Starlight Walk a memorable occasion. More than 450 walkers gathered at Capesthorne Hall for East Cheshire Hospice’s flagship fundraising event. The turnout was the biggest since the event resumed after Covid. For most, it was an opportunity to honour the memory of lost loved ones.
Remembering Emily Smith
Emily Smith, 38, who died in September, was remembered by around 40 friends, family, and colleagues who wore sunflowers, her favourite flower and the Hospice emblem. Her husband Adam, sons Orly and Arlo, and Emily’s mum Jan Lakin were present. The family have already raised £21,000 for the Hospice. Jan said: “It’s a bitter-sweet night as we remember Emily.” Their group included Jayne Barnes and Clare Hurst, whose sister Cath Thomas died last year, and her best friend Shelley Booth.
Staff Participation and Sponsors
Staff from the Spire Regency Hospital, an event sponsor, remembered Margaret Taylor, sister in the outpatient department. Her daughter Ali Bates said: “There’s a nice vibe here and it’s lovely that mum’s colleagues have come together in this way to honour her.” Radiologist Beverley Clifton-Parks was also remembering her mum Ivy Dyson. Colleague Sara Sutton said: “I’ve done several walks and the atmosphere is always brilliant. Everyone is here for the same reason - to fundraise for the Hospice because we’ve all been touched by its care.”
Other Participants and Entertainment
Ann McLoughlin was joined by colleagues from law firm Bott and Co as she remembered late husband Kevin. Musician Jonathan Edwards provided entertainment along the route; his late father-in-law David White was a Hospice patient. Georgia Leah held a tombola and raffle in the event village to raise funds for her trek to China, indebted to the charity for its care of husband Leon.
Juliette White, chair of the Hospice trustees, told walkers: “We’re privileged to look after your loved ones and your families. You trust us with caring for people at their most vulnerable. This evening is an opportunity for all of us to walk and remember those people we’ve loved and looked after and who we hold in our hearts. Thank you for your support.” Pizza Principles and Andrew Smith Funeral Directors were other sponsors.
