Latest news with #MidnightWalk
Daily Record
01-07-2025
- Health
- Daily Record
St Andrew's Hospice holds 15th annual Midnight Walk in Airdrie
More than 200 people completed the 10, 15 and 20-kilometre routes. It may have been completed in darkness but St Andrew's Hospice's 15th annual Midnight Walk helped provide plenty of light to many lives. More than 200 people completed the 10, 15 and 20-kilometre routes, which started at Airdrie Leisure Centre and continued throughout the town. Radio DJ Gina McKie got the participants in the party spirit before they set off on the walk. Annemarie Ross, HR assistant at St Andrew's Hospice, told Lanarkshire Live why she got involved in the special event this year, saying: "I took part as my school friends and I are celebrating a big birthday this year and we wanted to remember one of our friends who passed away in the hospice 14 years ago, who sadly will not. "Wilma had great respect and fondness of the hospice before she needed care and her family and friends received the very best of care at the end. So it seemed appropriate to remember her in this way. "I am so glad I did. The encouragement by the hospice team leading up to the event was so enthusiastic. "We felt so looked after the whole way through; meeting faces, which are now familiar, going around the route felt so good. It was an incredible feeling of achievement. "To allow people to remember loved ones in a special way while marking a personal achievement and raising much needed funds is such a powerful thing." Angela McParland, fundraiser at the hospice, added: "It was great to see so many people from across Lanarkshire taking part in our 15th anniversary Midnight Walk. "I would like to say a huge thank you to everyone who walked or who sponsored a walker. "We rely on the generosity of kind hearted people in Lanarkshire to deliver the specialist care and support we provide. "I would also like to thank everyone who helped make the night such a success including event sponsors; Kerrs Bakery, Devro, Cameron Commercials, Greg Biggam Accident Repair Centre, JW Morrison Haulage and Perfect Petals by Jill and Lewis McParland. "Thank you also to Amiry & Gilbride Pharmacy, Christie the Baker, Greggs, Baynes, Kerrs Bakery and Rena Gallagher for your generous contributions. "Huge thanks to our 4x4 Responders, Blue Knights, Mears, St Andrew's First Aid and all of our amazing volunteers - we could not put on this special event without you all."
Leader Live
08-06-2025
- Health
- Leader Live
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. MOST READ: Plans for 121 affordable homes near Flintshire town recommended for approval LOOK: "Delightful" home in "idyllic" setting goes on the market in Wrexham Concerns raised over future of Grade I listed bridge in Wrexham 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.
Leader Live
05-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Leader Live
Nightingale House Hospice Wrexham challenge for Luke Nixon
Luke Nixon, now working as a doctor in South Wales, is taking on the challenge in loving memory of his mum, who was a dedicated supporter of the hospice and a regular at the annual Midnight Walk. Luke said: "My mum passed away from cancer just over two years ago, and it was incredibly unexpected even with the diagnosis. "She always did the Midnight Walk and believed it was a great bit of 'silly' fun for a wonderful cause. "The year after she passed, we did the walk in her memory, and this year I wanted to step it up in a way that combined her spirit with something personal to me." Luke Nixon will be completing the Midnight Walk in full scuba gear. Known for his love of endurance challenges, Luke has previously taken on gruelling events such as Murph, Hyrox, and Chadx1000, but this is his first challenge designed entirely for charity. Luke said: "After brainstorming with family and friends, we came up with the idea of me doing the whole walk in full scuba gear. "I think it's exactly the sort of ridiculous idea mum would've loved, and I hope it raises lots of funds for such an essential cause." Read more: Matt's epic tribute raises £50,000 for children's hospices Luke is urging others to get involved in the Midnight Walk and continue the legacy of fun and fundraising that his mum held dear: "Take to heart my mum's belief of making it a great bit of silly fun for a wonderful cause. "Dress up as brightly as you can, cover yourself in glow sticks, I'm going to see how many I can fit on my scuba gear, and just enjoy it." Luke Nixon carried a photo of his mum on a previous Midnight Walk. Luke has set up a JustGiving page where supporters can sponsor his efforts: The Midnight Walk will take place on Saturday, June 7, starting from Llwyn Isaf, Wrexham, with the choice of a 5k or 10k route. Hundreds of participants are set to light up the streets in support of hospice care. All funds raised from the event go directly to supporting patients and families at Nightingale House Hospice, which provides compassionate care for those with life limiting and progressive illnesses. • To find out more or register for the Midnight Walk, visit:
Leader Live
03-06-2025
- Health
- Leader Live
Dementia in mind for new Chirk Court sensory garden
A vibrant sensory garden has officially opened at Chirk Court Nursing Home in Chirk, marking many months of dedicated planning, fundraising and hard work. The ribbon was cut by Mayor of Wrexham, Cllr Tina Mannering, alongside disability liaison officer from Wrexham AFC, Kerry Evans. Residents, staff, families and members of the local community gathered to celebrate. Activities coordinator Nicola in the sensory garden with resident Les who is a keen gardener. Chirk Court's manager Jane Humphreys was the mastermind behind a new sensory garden, which has been designed with elderly residents and people living with dementia in mind. The garden provides a safe, stimulating outdoor environment, where nature, colour, scent, sound and texture combine to support wellbeing, memory, and relaxation. From accessible pathways, soothing wind chimes and running water to fragrant blooms, eye-catching features and raised beds ideal for wheelchair users; every element has been carefully considered to create a fully inclusive, relaxing space. Read more: Walking for Minnie - family's tribute at hospice's Midnight Walk The creation of Chirk Court's sensory garden was a team effort which involved extensive research, fundraising, and many hours of volunteering from both staff and residents. The result is a magnificent, multi-sensory experience, which is already having a positive impact. Residents and staff enjoy exploring the sensory garden which features raised beds and accessible pathways. The official opening of the garden was celebrated with excitement, as it was proudly unveiled to the local community. Kerry said: "It was a real honour to be asked along to open the new sensory garden, I was so impressed with the efforts that had gone into making it a safe, welcoming sanctuary for residents to enjoy. Read more: Pioneering Wrexham organisation hailed as blueprint for social care in Wales "For people living with dementia keeping their mind active and stimulated is so important and by having that wonderful new garden you have achieved that in abundance." Cllr Mannering added: "It was an absolute honour and privilege to jointly open such a beautiful, stunning sensory garden. Jane and the staff have worked wonders, along with the residents and families. Kerry Evans from Wrexham AFC (far right) along with Wrexham Mayor Cllr Tina Mannering visited to officially open the Chirk Court Sensory Garden. "There are native wildflower beds, beautiful colourful bedding plants. A lovely water feature and even raised vegetable, fruit and herb planters, which enable residents to be involved with planting and harvesting when ready. There is a mindful walkway with hand painted benches and twinkly lights; something for everyone to enjoy - especially the deer ornaments. A little piece of heaven!" Read more: Wrexham pupils learn about healthy eating amid Welsh Government proposals Jane said: "Today has been a wonderful celebration of what we can achieve when we work together. I am so grateful for all the hard work and effort that everyone has put in, to create this fabulous space. We've built something truly special for our community and we are incredibly grateful to everyone who has helped make this sensory garden a reality." Jane Humphreys - Manager at Chirk Court, Wrexham Mayor - Cllr Tina Mannering, Kerry Evans - Disability Liaison Officer, Wrexham AFC. Jane was also thanked Keep Wales Tidy, for community grants which have been a huge help with funding areas of the garden including the allotment. The sensory garden is open for residents, visitors and staff to enjoy daily. Nicola Hughes, activities coordinator at Chirk Court: "The garden brings normality, it's good for the mind, it's relaxing, and it brings back memories from life and childhood. It creates relationships, encourages residents to talk to each other and supports physical activities; it means a huge amount to everyone at Chirk Court."
Leader Live
02-06-2025
- Health
- Leader Live
Nightingale House Hospice's Midnight Walk this weekend
Nightingale House Hospice's Midnight Walk, on Saturday (June 7), offering supporters the chance to walk in memory, celebration or solidarity with loved ones, all while raising vital funds for hospice care. The Midnight Walk, sponsored by Hoya, is one of the most anticipated events in the Nightingale House events calendar. Starting and ending at Llwyn Isaf, Wrexham, walkers can choose either a 5k or 10k route through the town, with hundreds expected to take part dressed in neon and sparkle for an unforgettable night of fun, reflection, and community spirit. Among those taking part this year is Lindsey Dalmeny, who will walk in memory of her sister, Maria Edwards, affectionately known as "Minnie", who died at the age of 34 in May 2023 after being diagnosed with an aggressive brain tumour. Walking in memory of Maria 'Minnie' Edwards. Lindsey said: "I am walking in memory of my sister, Maria. "She was initially at Nightingale House for respite care, but when her health declined, she received palliative care there. "The love and care she received, and that we all received as a family, was beyond anything we could have hoped for. "My dad now volunteers with the fundraising team. You might have seen him around as 'Lenny the lottery ball'!" Read more: Wrexham man to hike mountain range - carrying fridge freezer! This year's walk holds special significance for Lindsey and her family, as it falls on Maria's birthday. Since 2023, Lindsey and her loved ones have raised about £10,000 for Nightingale House since 2023 through various fundraising and donations. Lindsey added: "We usually do the walk as a group, my mum, her siblings, Maria's friends, my best friend and her daughter. "My dad helps out on the signing-in desks. It's our way of remembering Minnie and doing something positive to give back to the hospice. Read more: Every moment matters - Wrexham hospice launch funding campaign "Fundraising is vital, and if our support can help even one more family the way we were helped, then it's all worth it." The Midnight Walk is open to participants aged 12 and over (anyone under the aged of 18 must be accompanied by a responsible adult), with a lively pre-walk warm-up and entertainment. Walkers are encouraged to register to secure their place and get their iconic Midnight Walk t-shirt, so they can raise as much sponsorship as they can. Every penny raised helps Nightingale House continue providing specialist care to patients and families across Northeast Wales and the border areas, completely free of charge. Read more: Optician Dawn set sights on half marathon charity fundraiser Elise Jackson, event, campaigns and community fundraising manager at Nightingale House, said: "The Midnight Walk is such a powerful event. It brings our community together in a way that's joyful, emotional and full of heart. "Stories like Lindsey's remind us why every step counts, not just for the people we've lost, but for the families still in need of our care." • Participants can register at: • To support Lindsey's fundraising, visit her JustGiving page:
