A HOSPICE charity event has made history by raising over £130,000.
The 2024 Walk to Remember, organised by St Mary's Hospice, took place in September, selling out for the first time.
The charity has now announced the event, by raising a total of £130,654, has become the most successful hospice-led initiative in their 35-year history.
Events and Challenges Manager Melissa Dixon said: "We are absolutely overwhelmed by the incredible amount raised - it's an event that truly brings our community together in such a meaningful way, and we never imagined that one event could raise such a phenomenal sum.
“We're deeply thankful to every single person who took part, whether they walked, donated, or supported in any way - it’s a powerful reminder of what we can achieve when we come together for a cause that touches so many lives."
The funds raised will directly support the vital work the hospice does for patients and their families, where eight out of 10 patients rely on voluntary income for their care.
Sarah Milligan, who walked as part of Team H’s Angels, added: “I originally signed up for the Walk to Remember in 2022, the year we lost our beautiful Heather Jayne to suicide at just 22.
Read more: 73-year-old takes part in Walk to Remember for late brother | The Mail (nwemail.co.uk)
“It was really important to us as a family to raise money for such a worthy, much needed cause, in memory of our H, having had friends that benefited from the service.
"2024 was our third year at the walk - I believe it’s important for locals to be supportive of the hospice service, as let’s face it, one day we may need the service ourselves."
To announce the grand total on Thursday, October 17, the hospice was helped by magician Jack Rhodes, who also attended the walk last month.
A video posted by the hospice showed Jack used his box of tricks to reveal the amount.
Entries are already open for next year's edition of the event, with the hospice now hoping that it can sell out once again and somehow top 2024's donation total.
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