Fundraisers step up for St Nicholas Hospice Care’s Sunset Walk

Hundreds of people from across the area came together on Saturday (June 20) evening to take part in the St Nicholas Hospice Care Sunset Walk, filling the streets with excitement, energy and laughter.

As the evening light faded, 850 walkers followed scenic routes through Bury St Edmunds, all united to raise vital funds to support local hospice care.

With sponsorship still being returned, it will be a little while before a final fundraising total can be shared, but with the monies we have received so far, the hospice has said that the Sunset Walk has already raised around £80,000.

Friends, families, colleagues and community groups walked side by side, many taking part in memory of those special to them who have died or to say thank you for the care they have experienced.

The event village in Abbey Gardens was alive with music and activity before the walk began, with participants enjoying a warm welcome and an uplifting atmosphere as they prepared to set off.

Along the 10K and 15K routes, supporters and volunteers created a strong sense of encouragement, and moments of celebration were balanced with quieter opportunities for reflection, including at the hospice on Hardwick Lane, where many paused to remember those close to them.

Charlie De-Moore, Events and Community Fundraising Manager at St Nicholas Hospice Care, said: “Every year, the Sunset Walk brings something really special to our community, and this year was no exception. It was incredible to see so many people come together, each with their own reason for walking, but all united in supporting the hospice.

“The atmosphere was fantastic from start to finish.  We’re so grateful to everyone who signed up, volunteered, supported or donated. The impact of that support will be felt by families across our communities. I’d also like to thank our main sponsor Greene King for their continued support.”

Participants were welcomed back at the finish with refreshments and medals, celebrating their achievements and the difference they are helping to make.

The event was made possible thanks to the support of headline sponsor Greene King, alongside many volunteers who helped ensure the event ran smoothly on the night.

Funds raised from the Sunset Walk will help St Nicholas Hospice Care continue providing specialist palliative care and support for people across West Suffolk and Thetford facing dying, death and grief. As a local charity, the hospice relies heavily on fundraising and community support to continue its work.