East Cheshire Hospice's Light Up The Night Walk was a big success, and local MP, David Rutley, joined hundreds of participants as the sun set and dusk fell, to celebrate the lives of those no longer with us, and help raise much-needed funds for the work of this vital local charity.
Once again taking place in the beautiful grounds of Capesthorne Hall nearby to Macclesfield, the theme for this year's event was 'Light Up The Night', with participants each carrying a lantern, in memory of a loved one no longer with them, which attendees were encouraged to personalise with memories and messages to the person being remembered. Participants were able to keep their lanterns at the end of the walk, if they wished. The route through the grounds varied in distance of either a 2.5km loop, 2 loops for 5km or 4 loops for 10km, according to ability.
Walkers were able to take part as individuals or in groups of friends and family and, during the walk, attendees also had the opportunity to float a lantern on the moonlit lake at Capesthorne Hall, in celebration of the life of the person or people they were remembering. The evening came to a spectacular conclusion with the traditional firework display, truly helping to illuminate this year's theme. There was also music, entertainment, and food and drink available throughout the evening.
Those taking part were encouraged to raise sponsorship funds of £50, or make a donation directly to the Hospice, to help support its important work across local communities across Cheshire East can find out more information at: www.eastcheshirehospice.org.uk/support
Speaking after the event, David said, "I was pleased to join Hospice staff and hundreds of other local residents for this moving and uplifting occasion. Light Up The Night is an important opportunity to remember the life of a loved one and support the vital work of this much-valued local charity. I am grateful to all those who assisted in organising this memorable event, and to those who took part."