We did it!!!
On Friday the 19th of May 700 local women walked 8 miles, over 12K, for the Woking and Sam Beare Hospice.
The route took us from Woking Leisure Centre to the new Woking Hospice on Goldsworth Park and back to the Leisure centre in an 8 mile loop covering the streets of Woking, St.John’s, Horsell and round Goldsworth Lake.
The atmosphere was fantastic and everyone came together in the Leisure Centre for a warm up, face painting and photographs. After a motivational speech the walkers went outside to the start line where a countdown and music saw us off on our way. With Hospice t-shirts, super hero capes and flashing bunny ears, the 700 strong, crowd of willing women made their way through the dimly lit streets past the guiding support of volunteers who lined the route, enthusiastically clapping and supporting the walkers.
A crocodile of flashing bunny ears was a sight to behold as passing cars tooted and shouted encouragement to the caped crusaders as they marched towards the half way point at the new Hospice building and a banana, water and toilet stop. 👯👯
The fisherman who went out night fishing on Goldsworth Lake that night were certainly surprised by flashing bunny ears and chatting women as the walk progressed round the lake, I am sure the fish don’t see a sight like that often either.
On passing the Fox and Flowerpot on Goldsworth Park we were met with cheers of encouragement by the drinkers who were enjoying a quiet pint outside on a warm Friday night in May. We were very lucky with the weather as rain and storms had been forecast but held off while we walked.
Before we knew it we were back at the Leisure Centre where we received a warm welcome, a medal, a goody bag, coffee and snacks, all given out by yet more kind volunteers.
To be honest the goody bag was not great, I have been told it was better other years, but no one does it for that. My friends and I got told off by a marshal for crossing incorrectly, but we did not wait for the crossing and if you can’t misbehave as adults...... what is the point of being a grown up.😉
All in all we all raised money for a very worthy cause and every penny helps. The generosity of my friends and family means I have, to date, been able to raise just over £300. My donation page will be open for another couple of months and donations are still welcome. (Please see the link below)
The Hospice helps many people who are dying. It makes their final days or weeks more comfortable than if they were in hospital but it does mean they still have access to good medical help. This is such a valuable service to the community but it relies on donations and fundraising to keep it going. There are many ways to support them from cash donations, volunteering, donating or spending in their many charity shops or helping with fundraising. Their website is www.wsbhospices.co.uk and you can get information you need about them there.
I would like to thank Carolyn and Lucy Kirk who I walked with, this is the third year they have done it and the first year I have and I would not have thought to do it if Carolyn hadn’t mentioned it.
I have got to say that with our layers of clothing and the t-shirt design.......practically a polo neck, we don't look quite the trio of top athletes we actually are. 😁
I would recommend doing the Midnight Walk. It is fun, good exercise and, most importantly, it raises money for a brilliant, local cause. When you see the crocodile of women walking through the dark with their bunny ears flashing in the dark, you get a real sense of pride to be part of this amazing group of women who don't mind dressing up and getting out there to raise money and awareness for the local hospice.
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