Thousands of pounds have been raised through a walking challenge which took place on Saturday 3 June in aid of the Hospice at Home Carlisle supported by Story Homes.
The 180 walkers who took on the ‘Hospice at Home 20 Challenge’ are expected to raise a total of more than £25,000 for the charity, which is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year.
Hospice at Home service provides high quality care and support for adults who have palliative and end of life care needs, and also for their families and carers. The charity needs to raise £20,028 each week to continue to provide its vital service.
The challenge, which is one of a number of celebratory events being organised this year, was based at Braithwaite Institute where participants of all ages and from across the country registered and had breakfast from 6 am before setting off on two challenging routes.
Managing Director for Story Homes, Ian Storey, said: “Hospice at Home is a significant charity in our region which does an amazing job providing personalised end of life care, and also supporting families. We are very pleased to support this event to help raise money and the profile of the charity.
“We’re celebrating our 30th birthday this year and over the years ‘we have built up a reputation for supporting the communities in the areas surrounding our developments across Cumbria. We are proud to continue this as we further expand and are working to build up stronger relationships with our local community as we grow.”
The 20 mile, ten peak route took in Catbells, Maiden Moor, High Spy, Dale Head and Robinson before the walkers descended into Buttermere for lunch. In the afternoon the walk involved the peaks of Whiteless Pike, Wandope, Crag Hill, Sail and Barrow before walkers returned for a well-deserved cream tea provided by the Hospice’s Keswick volunteer fundraising group.
Hospice at Home fundraiser Cath Coates said: “We would like to thank everyone involved for making this day such a huge success. The walkers were fantastic and we received wonderful support from local volunteers who marshalled, registered participants and provided catering. The event couldn’t have happened without these generous supporters.
“Also thanks to Story Homes for sponsoring the event. With their financial support, more funds can be allocated to provide care for patients with life-limiting or life threatening illnesses who wish to remain at home.”
For more information on Hospice at Home visit www.hospiceathome.co.uk.