Midnight challenge for radio celebrity

BREAKFAST radio broadcaster Phil Trow is used to being up during the early hours of the morning, but has normally been to bed first.

This June, the BBC Radio Manchester presenter will be trying his best to stay awake as he joins St Ann’s Hospice at their Manchester Midnight Walk.

Phil will be hosting the main event stage to ensure the 1,500 expected participants are energised and ready to take on the 10-kilometre moonlit stroll to raise money for the local charity.

He said: “My body clock will certainly be put to the test, but it’s all in the name of a good cause, so it will be worth it when we see how much money the event raises.

“I’m going to be warming up the crowd, so hopefully they’re a noisy lot, as after I’ve been up since 4.30am presenting, I don’t want to accidentally nod off.”

The Manchester Midnight Walk, which will take place on Friday, June 23, has become a staple on the city’s fundraising calendar since it began in 2007, with last year’s event raising almost £170,000 for St Ann’s.

Rachel McMillan, deputy chief executive and director of clinical services at St Ann’s, said: “We need to fundraise around £16,000 every day to keep our services running, so events like this are really important.

“It’s a real favourite and we can’t thank Phil and everyone who has signed up to take part enough for their support.

“It really does make a huge difference to the lives of our patients and their families.”

To register, call 0161 498 3631 or visit www. mmwalk.org.uk.