Put a spring in your step for the hospice

dave.tanner@archant.co.uk
03 February 2010

Ivy Grant with hospice head of fund-raising Ali Hunt, getting ready for the Walk for Life event in March

NORTH Devon Hospice is giving you the perfect chance to blow away those winter cobwebs and revel in the joys of spring at the ninth annual Walk For Life event taking place on Sunday, March 28.

Walk for Life offers eight spectacular sponsored walks on the beautiful North Devon coast, all of which will be led once again by the ever willing men and women of HM Coastguard who will add great local knowledge to each walk.

Ali Hunt, who is Head of Fund-raising at North Devon Hospice, said that this was an event for the whole family because the walks were tailored for all ages and abilities.

"We are so lucky to live in such a beautiful area and Walk For Life offers people the chance to enjoy the wonderful scenery we have on our doorstep with excellent insight from HM Coastguard," she said.

"The coast always looks magical in springtime and we have put together eight different walks to suit everyone, no matter what their age or fitness level. Every walker will get a free hospice pin badge as well so you can show your support."

As well as walking for fun, many people take part in Walk For Life and raise sponsorship in memory of a loved one who is no longer with us.

Ivy Grant from Barnstaple has taken part in Walk for Life every year and continues to support the event because of friends who have been cared for by North Devon Hospice.

"I know a lot of people over the years who have spent time in the bedded unit or who have used the day hospice service. I have also visited the hospice many times and the care they provide is wonderful," she said.

"Walk for Life is a marvellous day out because everyone is walking for the same cause and so there is a fantastic camaraderie among all the walkers.

"I usually choose one of the easier walks with three or four friends, and we have a great time. We are also very mindful to raise as much sponsorship as possible for such a great cause."

Ali Hunt added: "At North Devon Hospice, we provide free care to patients, families and carers. But this is only possible thanks to the support of the local community through events such as Walk For Life. By taking part in this event, not only will you enjoy a spectacular coastal walk, you will also be helping the hospice care for more than 100 local people every day.

We look forward to receiving your registration form printed on this page and welcoming you on board Walk for Life."

Alternatively, please phone Gerard Fawcitt on 01271 347224 for more information or visit www.northdevonhospice.org.uk to download an application form.