Moonlight Walk raises £38,000

On Saturday 14 September, around 600 people gathered at the Hospice for this year’s Moonlight Walk event. Walkers were dressed in glow-sticks and ready to paint the town neon! Groups of friends and families embarked on the 7-mile circular route of York after enjoying two hours of live entertainment, with many walking in memory of a loved one who had been cared for at St Leonard’s. An incredible total of £38,000 has been raised so far, with more sponsorships still coming in.

The walk started at 9 pm from Tadcaster Road, with neon-clad walkers crossing the Knavesmire, passing by York landmarks Clifford’s Tower and the Shambles, and then returning to the Hospice along Tadcaster Road for a well-deserved bacon butty.

The night itself began at 7 pm at the Hospice, with walkers dressed in a variety of neon outfits, ready for warm-up performances by Tri-Starrs and Thomas Clubbercise, face painting, carnival games, free sweets, and ice cream for everyone before the walk commenced. Maggie of Graham’s Ices has generously provided free ice creams to walkers for the past two years, serving over 250 ice cream cones on the night, as well as ice lollies and tubs.

Presenter Chris Marsden of YO1 Radio hosted the stage, while YO1 Radio also broadcast a special live three-hour program from its studio in Goodramgate, which was turned into a ‘Dedication Station’ along the route of the walk.

We’re incredibly grateful to all those who walked, sponsored, and helped on the night. Special thanks also to the local organisations that supported us in making it an extra special event. Stay tuned for next year’s Moonlight Walk details!