Starlight Stroll for St Wilfrid's is back with big fundraising target

The Starlight Stroll fundraiser on Eastbourne seafront will take place on September 15 and is St Wilfrid's Hospice's biggest annual event '“ and this year is set to be the biggest ever.
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So far, more than 800 participants have signed up and the hospice is hoping to make it over 1,000. Choose to walk either four or six miles, starting and ending at the Redoubt Fortress.

Lay your decorated, dedicated paper lantern at the Italian Gardens, the halfway point, to join hundreds of others remembering their loved ones.

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Victoria Haggar has taken part in Starlight Stroll every year since it started in 2015 and is looking forward to this year’s walk.

She said, “I will be walking Starlight Stroll in memory of my brother, David, who died in 2014.

“He was an amazing person who left us far too early.

“When Starlight Stroll started, my friend Joanne and I decided to take part.

“It’s poignant, peaceful and calming, creating such a special atmosphere. At the Italian Gardens you quietly lay your own personal lantern as a special tribute and feel you are among a family of people who have all shared the same experiences.

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“It helps with the emotions of bereavement and also, through sponsorship, raises money for the hospice.

“The care from St Wilfrid’s was invaluable for David, so it feels good to be able to help them support other patients and families in the future.’

Beth Hillier, event organiser, says the fundraising target has been raised for this year’s event.

She said, “Last year, Starlight Stroll raised £42,000 and this year we are aiming for £60,000 which will help provide the best end-of-life care for people with life-limiting illnesses in the catchment area.

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“The walk is open to anyone, they don’t have to have had a relative in hospice care. This year, exclusive to participants after the walk, there will be an opportunity to stargaze from the gun platform at the Redoubt with the Eastbourne Astronomical Society.

“We hope to see as many people as possible joining in.”

The Starlight Stroll costs £16 per person. Sign up at www.stwhospice.org. Anyone interested can also contact Beth on 01323 434241 or by emailing [email protected]