THE annual St Leonard’s Hospice Challenge Walk on Saturday, May 4 was not blessed with great weather, but the 147 walkers who had come along to the event remained in good spirits.

St Leonard’s is grateful to all our walkers for their efforts, many of whom were sponsored; we’re really grateful to the sponsors, too.

Although it will be some time before we have this year’s total, it will be another impressive sum. This was the 23rd Challenge Walk; over the years the event has raised more than £200,000 for the work of caring for local people with life-threatening illness.

Thanks to our dedicated band of volunteers positioned along the route and back at base in Haworth. Once again, Mike and Sandra Thorpe, of Mike Thorpe Windows, supplied refreshments at the start and welcoming drinks and biscuits along the route; Nestlé provided Kit Kats; and Colin Whattam and his team at Badger Hill Bakery provided the fantastic pies that awaited walkers at the end. All much appreciated.

On June 8 we will hold our Midnight Walk, this year with an Hawiian theme. Details available at stleonardshospice.org.uk or by phoning 01904 777777.

Janet Morley, Director of Fundraising, St Leonard’s Hospice, Tadcaster Road, York.