Why can only women take part?
The Starlight Walk invites women of all ages and fitness levels to join together to help raise funds for St. Rocco’s Hospice. There is something very special about a group of women joining together for a common cause and this is the only event in the Hospice calendar which excludes men from participation. We do however need lots of volunteers on the night so any men (and women!)who would like to involved please contact us about joining the Starlight Marshal Team.
How much does it cost to take part?
With our Early Bird offer this year, registration is £12 when you sign up before 1st May 2012. After that, it will be £15. For this, you will receive your place in the walk, your T-shirt, a light breakfast and refreshments. It also covers the cost of administration, so that all the sponsorship money you raise can go directly to helping Hospice patients.
How long is the route?
The route is a circular route of 6.5 miles which can be done once, or twice to achieve the half marathon of 13 miles. The choice is yours; remember it is not a race!!
Where does the walk go?
The Starlight Walk starts and finishes at The newly regenerated Orford Park which is just off Winwick Road, Warrington and follows a route which passes through Latchford, Orford and the Town Centre. To see a map please click here.
Will it be safe?
Your safety is of the utmost importance to us. The route is fully marshalled. We also have the support of Cheshire Police, St. Johns Ambulance and Raynet.
How long will it take?
The walk could take anything from 3.5 hours to 6 hours for the full 13 miles, but there is no rush and we encourage walkers to go at their own pace. There will be lead walkers as well as people at the end of the walk to ensure the last participants return safely.
Is the route suitable for children?
We often have requests from walkers who want to bring children aged under 16 years. Taking into account the difficulty of walking at night when your body is used to sleeping, the late start (midnight) and the fact that you will be walking through the centre of town late at night; in our opinion, the Starlight Walk is not suitable for children under the age of 16 years. If however you do wish to take a child under 16, we ask that you discuss this first with the Team by calling the Hospice on 01925 575780. You will be asked to sign a disclaimer form.
Are there toilets?
There are toilet stops along the route; these are marked on your map so that you can pace yourself.
Do I need to be very fit?
No you take it at your own pace, but we do recommend that you train before taking part in the Walk.
Will there be any refreshments?
We suggest you bring water with you. There will be a water stop at the mid point and a light breakfast at the end of the route.
Can I bring my dog?
No pets or animals are permitted on the Starlight Walk or on the event route except for guide dogs.
How much sponsorship do I have to raise?
We do not ask for a minimum amount of sponsorship but please remember that St Rocco’s Hospice will only raise funds from this event through sponsorship. Every penny you raise will go towards helping our staff care for local people and their families coping with life threatening illnesses.
How can I get sponsorship?
Ask everyone who knows you and don’t forget to ask them to tick the gift aid box if they are eligible as this will increase their sponsorship by 22p per pound. Also, how about raising sponsorship by holding a coffee morning, car washing or something similar? See: Top Tips for Fundraising.
Who is eligible to tick the Gift Aid box?
If the person sponsoring you is a UK tax payer or pays Capital Gains Tax then you can make the donation worth even more. For every £1 you give to us we get an extra 22p.
Is the route suitable for wheelchairs?
Wheelchair users may take part. There are certain health and safety requirements to which we much adhere for wheelchair users, so please contact us for more details.
Do I need special footwear or clothing?
We recommend that you wear comfortable clothing and well fitting flat shoes, boots or trainers. Prepare for any weather by carrying or wearing a waterproof jacket. Bring plenty of water to drink especially if it is warm. Be prepared to spend several hours outside. It may be cool at night so bring something warm to wear.
Will there be parking on the night?
There will be limited spaces at Orford Park, however to minimise congestion we would ask you to car share wherever possible.
Where is the registration point?
Please arrive at 10pm prompt at "The Hub" at Orford Park for registration.
For more information, please contact info@starlightladieswalk.co.uk
St. Rocco's Hospice Registered Charity Number 511592