Starlight Walk bathed Swindon streets in orange for Prospect Hospice

The streets of Swindon turned orange when local people brought the colour and fun to Prospect Hospice's flagship fundraiser.

The Starlight Walk, sponsored by Imagine Cruising, offered local people a chance to celebrate and remember their loved ones who are no longer here but also raise funds for Prospect Hospice through fundraising. 

Donations poured in, with sponsorship already exceeding last year’s £50,000 raised, and over 400 enthusiastic participants embraced the festival spirit in vibrant outfits to show their support.

Carolyn Bell, director of patient services at Prospect Hospice, said: "A huge well done and thank you to everyone who participated in this year's Starlight Walk, including all the volunteers who made this event possible. 

"It was fabulous to see so many people walking to support Prospect Hospice. You are all amazing and we really couldn’t do what we do without you.”

“It was an incredible experience for everyone involved, and witnessing the festival vibe and the stunning outfits worn by our supporters was truly inspiring. Every penny raised will go towards the funds we need to run the hospice's vital services providing care for many people at home and in the hospice.  

"This includes nurses, doctors, therapists, social workers, carers and bereavement support, all free of charge to patients and their families in Swindon and north east Wiltshire."

This year marked the 15th edition of the fundraiser, with participants completing walking routes of either 10 or 15 kilometres beginning at the home of Swindon Town Football Club, County Road, from 8:30 pm. 

The routes led supporters from the Country Ground along Queens Drive to Coate Water, where a dedicated remembrance garden provided an opportunity to pay tribute to and celebrate the memory of loved ones. 

The paths continued up Marlborough Road, with the 10km route taking Drove Road and the 15km route following Pipers Way towards Wichelstowe. Both routes linked up on Drove Road, finishing at the County Ground to mark the end of an unforgettable night.

Robin Deller, CEO of Imagine Cruising, said: "Having been a proud sponsor for several years, we were, once again, delighted to be a part of such a fantastic event.”

Information about forthcoming Prospect fundraising events can be found at www.prospect-hospice.net/events