Date announced for Ashgate Hospicecare's annual Chesterfield charity walk

The charity is eager to hold the annual walk in a ‘safe and socially distanced way’ in September 2021 that will still retain ‘the fun and atmosphere the event is known for’.

Family and friends have previously come together to take part in the Sparkle Night Walk to help fund Ashgate Hospicecare’s services by walking 10km through the streets of Chesterfield.

This year’s event is scheduled to take place on September 25 in line with the Government’s road-map out of lockdown which would see all Covid-19 restrictions provisionally lifted on July 21.

Previously, the event which is sponsored by Vertu Toyota, has taken place in July, but the hospice has pushed back the date of their much-loved fundraising walk this year in light of the schedule to ease virus measures.

Ashgate hopes the new September date will allow the charity to hold a socially distanced event marching through the town, while ensuring the safety of its supporters, volunteers and the local community.

There will be staggered start times from Chesterfield FC’s Technique Stadium with walkers will be waved off from the start line every 15 minutes from 8pm.

Fundraising Manager at Ashgate Hospicecare Carl Jones said: “We’re delighted to be able to open registrations for the return of our annual Sparkle Night Walk in September.

“We are really looking forward to welcoming back our supporters and seeing some familiar faces, as well as those new supporters taking part for the first time.

"It’s been a long time since we have all been together and that is why this event will feel even more special.

“While we are hopeful that the event will take place, we will of course closely monitor the Covid situation over the coming months.

"It is our priority to keep our wonderful walkers safe whilst ensuring there is the very best chance of the event going ahead.

“Our fundraising team will be sure to keep everyone updated should there be any further changes to our plans.

“We hope to welcome you all back for the much-anticipated return of our Sparkle Night Walk in September!”

The charity will give participants the opportunity to take place virtually as well, similar to how last year’s charity walk was held, for those who would prefer to choose their own route and complete it separately.

Ashgate is encouraging residents to sign-up to the Sparkle Night Walk and help raise money to fund the specialist end-of-life care they provide.

So far, the charity has reported losses of more than £3 million from its usual income streams during the pandemic, due to the cancellation of fundraising events and repeated closure of its shops.

The hospice has thanked their supporters for their generosity and in particular to those who have rallied together to fundraise and support its recent crisis appeal campaigns in an effort to overcome the losses.

Participants are urged to sign up for Sparkle Night Walk 2021 before June 14 with early bird entry available for £10.

To find out more about the event and register click here.

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