Balmy night for charity walkers
A 10-SECOND countdown and hundreds of 40th anniversary balloons was the scene for over 850 walkers to start their walking challenge through the streets of Northwood on a balmy Friday night, donning flashing accessories, bunny ears, cowboy hats and discothemed merchandise, for the annual Ladies in the Night Disco Fever walk in aid of Michael Sobell Hospice. Women, men and children set off at 10.00pm from outside the hospice, based on the Mount Vernon Hospital site, to take on their five and a half or nine-mile walk – dancing along as they went.
After a fun build-up in celebration of the hospice’s 40th anniversary year, with live music from local band Any Buddy Out There and Zumba warm-ups courtesy of Mishi Mishi Fitness, walkers were soon limbered up and ready to go!
Along the way, they were cheered on and supported by local residents, as well as pub-goers of The Misty Moon, Northwood, which had held a special 80’s night in celebration of the big event – helping to add those extra pennies towards the overall fundraising pot.
Pit-stops on route included Merchant Taylor’s School where exhibition roller skaters from Rolladome in Acton, entertained the crowd while they stocked up on energyboosting treats and water, followed by further stops at Northwood Football Club, Savills Estate Agent (cosponsor of the walk t-shirts along with Northwood Hills-based Clearview Homes) and the charity’s own shop on Northwood High Street.
Pet pooches were even able to take part in the route – many were sporting disco fever outfits in honour of the 40th anniversary year of the Hospice.
Commenting on another successful Ladies in the Night walk, which first started in 2010, Michael Sobell Hospice Charity Events Manager, Ophelia Chambers-Henry, said: “On behalf of everyone involved with the charity, I would like to say a massive thank you to everyone who took part and supported this event including all our volunteers and marshals as well as help from our local cadets and M.O.D. personnel. We’re absolutely delighted with the turnout; the weather was wonderful, and once everyone has sent in their sponsorship money, we’ll be able to announce what has been raised overall.”
She added: “As we celebrate 40 years of local hospice care, it is down to the commitment, enthusiasm and dedication of our supporters, that we are able to continue to fund the vital care and support provided by Michael Sobell Hospice in our local area. Thank you.” The team at Michael Sobell Hospice