5 days ago
Wrexham: Hundreds take part in Nightingale's Midnight Walk
Llwyn Isaf, Wrexham was transformed into a sea of sparkle, colour and compassion on Saturday (June 7), as hundreds of supporters came together for Nightingale House Hospice's annual Midnight Walk, one of the charity's most loved and emotional fundraising events.
Walkers turned out in bright clothing, flashing bunny ears, glowing flower necklaces and light-up tutus for the late-night event.
Many were walking in memory of loved ones and to raise vital funds to help Nightingale House continue delivering free, expert care for people living with life-limiting and progressive illnesses.
Participants could choose between a 5k or 10k route, both flat and fully accessible, winding through the streets of Wrexham.
Before the official midnight countdown for the walk to begin, the crowd was treated to live music from local favourites Rhythm Train, followed by a high energy warm up led by Freedom Leisure.
One of those taking part this year was Carole Jones, who walked alongside her daughter, Mollie, in memory of her mum, Jacqueline Jones.
Mollie and Carole Jones (left) walked in memory of Jacqueline Jones (right). (Image: Nightingale House Hospice) Carole said: 'My mum came to the hospice with metastatic breast cancer that had spread to her bones.
'The care she received was amazing, nothing was too much trouble. When she could barely eat, the kitchen staff even made special trips to Asda to get her favourite oxtail soup.
'Mum came back to the hospice towards the end of her life, she was never uncomfortable, and we were always welcomed with such kindness.
'The support I had from the Family Support Team afterwards really helped me. I love the atmosphere at the Midnight Walk and always get quite emotional.'
As Nightingale House Hospice celebrates its 30th anniversary, the support of hundreds of event participants, through their sponsorship, helps ensure that patients and their families across Northeast Wales and the border areas continue to receive free care and support, at a time when running costs have risen to over £5 million a year.
The event was made possible thanks to the support of over 50 incredible volunteers, who worked alongside staff to help with everything from event set-up and registration to marshalling the route and cheering on walkers throughout the night.
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Elise Jackson, Events and Community Fundraising Manager at Nightingale House Hospice, said: 'Seeing so many people walking through Wrexham under the stars, united by love, hope and purpose, is truly moving.
'Every single person who took part, whether they walked, fundraised, volunteered or supported behind the scenes, has helped make a real difference.
'We're especially grateful to our amazing volunteers, who give up their time to ensure the event runs smoothly and safely.
'The Midnight Walk is always an emotional but uplifting night, and in celebration of the hospice's 30th anniversary, it felt even more special.'
Local businesses including Hoya who sponsored the event, Papa John's, Hickory's Smokehouse, Kellogg's, Village Bakery, Moneypenny, and Hafren Dyfrdwy also played their part, generously donating food, refreshments, and glitter to help fuel the fun and keep walkers smiling every step of the way.
