Walkers step up to plate for hospice

ONE GROUP and their dog: the walk begins

WALKERS enjoyed the hottest day of the year when they took part in Dr Kershaw’s annual hospice-to-hospice walk.

A record turnout of 230 walkers took part in the event for the seven-mile round trip to Rochdale’s Springhill Hospice in sunny 70F-plus temperatures.

The fastest walkers were back over the finish line in just over an hour-and-a-half — though some took up to three hours.

Back at Dr Kershaw’s in Royton, refreshments were handed out before participants went off to start collecting their sponsorship. Appeals manager Brian Hurst said: “It was a fantastic day, gorgeous weather, and everyone enjoyed it.

“We were up nearly a third on the number who took part last year which was brilliant.

“We’re hoping it will bring lots of money in through sponsorship.

“I want to say a big thank-you to everyone who joined in and made it such a special day.”