Ashgate Hospice’s Sparkle Night Walk has raised a record-breaking £388,238 – making it the most successful event in the fundraiser’s history.
More than 3,500 people turned the streets of Chesterfield pink on Saturday 27 June, pulling on tutus, flashing bunny ears and glitter to complete the 10km route in support of specialist palliative and end of life care across North Derbyshire.
The incredible total – the highest ever raised by the event – will help fund compassionate care for people with life-limiting illnesses and support for the people important to them, whether that’s in people’s own homes, out in the community or at the hospice.
James Branson, Events and Community Fundraising Manager at Ashgate Hospice, said:
“To raise a record-breaking £388,238 is an incredible achievement, and we’re so grateful to everyone who played a part.
“Every single person who signed up, donated, volunteered, sponsored the event or stood along the route cheering people on helped make this possible.
“Sparkle Night Walk is about so much more than fundraising. Every person taking part has their own story and their own reason for walking. Many are remembering someone they love, saying thank you for the care their family received, or helping make sure we’re here for future generations.
“Seeing thousands of people come together in support of their local hospice was incredibly moving. Their generosity will help ensure we can continue providing expert care and support to local families when they need us most.”
The annual event, now one of the biggest charity fundraising events in Derbyshire, saw participants set off from Chesterfield Football Club before making their way around a 10km route through Chesterfield.
Since it launched in 2015, Sparkle Night Walk has now raised over £2.9 million for Ashgate Hospice, helping thousands of local people receive specialist care and support.
Ashgate Hospice must raise around £11 million each year to continue providing its services, with around a third of its funding coming from the NHS.
James added:
“Breaking our fundraising record is a fantastic achievement and shows just how much our community believes in the work of Ashgate Hospice.
“We simply couldn’t provide the care we do without this incredible support, and we’d like to thank every single person who helped make this year’s Sparkle Night Walk our biggest and most successful yet.”
Registration for Sparkle Night Walk 2027 is now open.
North Derbyshire Radio were proud to support the Sparkle Walk being an official business screen sponsor.
