Countdown to fundraising walk begins

We are calling on people from the community to pull on their best PJs and put in the miles to help raise funds to support people facing the most difficult times.

St Nicholas Hospice Care, which provides care and help for people and families across West Suffolk and Thetford facing dying, caring, and grief, is hoping fundraisers will sign up in their droves to support their rearranged Girls Night Out walk 2022.

Originally planned for September 10 last year, the charity decided to postpone the event following the death of The Queen. 

With the walk, which is backed by main sponsor Jaynic, now set to take place on Saturday, 4 March 2023, it is hoped people will keep registering for the fundraiser, which starts on Angel Hill, Bury St Edmunds, and sees walkers complete either 11.2 or six-mile routes around the town. 

Charlie De-Moore, the hospice’s events manager, said: “With everyone settling back into their routines following the festive period, March 4 really isn’t that far away, and we’d love it if as many people as possible could join us for our rearranged event on March 4 and help raise funds for us. 

“Although the walk may be taking place at a different time of year, participants can still expect all of the features they have come to know and love. Seeing Angel Hill lit up with flashing bunny ears is always an amazing sight, and for myself and everyone at St Nic’s, it is an incredible feeling to know that all of those people are there to raise funds and support our hospice.

“If you haven’t already, please sign up, and join this special walk. Every step and mile makes a difference to your community’s hospice care.” 

On the night, walkers will set off from Angel Hill around 6.30pm; and beforehand, there will be a fun Zumba warm-up from a team of local Zumba instructors. 

There will also be a memory minute, giving those taking part and supporting the event the chance to reflect, as well as memory boards on Angel Hill and at the charity’s hospice building in Hardwick Lane, where people can remember loved ones who have died. 

Walkers will also receive a cake and hot drink at the finish and a Girls Night Out 2022 medal.

There is still time to sign up to participate in the event, supported by main sponsor Jaynic and Chassis Cab, Havebury Housing Partnership and Greene King.   

You can sign up online at www.girlsnightoutwalk.co.uk. Walkers must be aged 14 to participate, and those between 14 and 17 must walk with someone over 18. Walkers should try to aim to raise £100.

Organisers are also looking for more volunteers to lend a hand on the night. If you think you could help, visit: https://www.girlsnightoutwalk.co.uk/volunteer.  

Due to 2022’s event being rearranged, the charity will not be organising another Girls Night Out event in September 2023.

However, plans are underway for some exciting new events in 2023-24, including to mark the charity’s upcoming 40th anniversary. St Nic’s hopes the local community will get involved during the year. Please keep checking our website for more detail.