A record number of people laced up their walking boots to take on Ashgate Hospice’s High Peak Trail Walk this weekend – raising more than £75,000 to support palliative and end of life care across North Derbyshire.
Around 721 supporters took part in this year’s event, sponsored by Darwin Forest Luxury Lodge Holidays, choosing either a 3.5, 11 or 17-mile route along the historic High Peak Trail. The turnout beat last year’s total of 580 walkers, making it the biggest event to date.
Fundraising has already reached £75,000, with donations still coming in. Every pound raised will help Ashgate Hospice continue providing care to people with a life-limiting illness, and the people important to them.
Among those taking part was Helen Bird (55), who completed the 11-mile route in memory of her friend Dave Smith, who died in June 2025 aged 58.
Dave had been diagnosed just two months before he died and was cared for at Ashgate Hospice’s Inpatient Unit on the day of his death.
“Even though he was only there for a few hours, the care made all the difference,” said Helen. “The nurses were so kind and everything just felt right. We were able to sit with him, together, and that meant everything.”
Helen has raised more than £1,000 so far, supported by friends, family and colleagues. She was cheered across the finish line by Dave’s wife, Sarah.
“It was much harder than I thought it would be,” she said. “But it’s been really special too. There were moments where it was very emotional, especially setting off and coming towards the end.
“I did a lot of it on my own, which gave me time to think. Then there were moments where people would stop and chat, and even people who remembered Dave. It just made it feel really personal.”
After crossing the finish line, Helen marked the moment by raising a glass of Dave’s favourite drink – Guinness – poured into his engraved
glass.
James Branson, Events and Community Fundraising Manager at Ashgate Hospice, said:
“To see 721 people come together like this was incredibly special. The High Peak Trail Walk continues to grow each year, and this weekend really showed what it means to so many people.
“Everyone who took part was walking with a purpose – whether that was in memory of someone, to say thank you, or simply to support local hospice care.
“We’re so grateful to every single person who signed up, donated, volunteered or cheered walkers on. The money raised will help us continue to be there for the people who need us, now and in the future.”
Participants set off throughout the morning and finished in the afternoon to applause from volunteers and supporters waiting at the end of the trail.
Registration for next year’s High Peak Trail Walk is now open. Anyone interested in taking part can find out more and sign up by visiting www.ashgatehospice.org.uk/high-peak-trail-walk
