Mersey ladies prepare to unite for midnight walk

Ladies on Merseyside are once again being urged to sign up to the annual Jospice Midnight Walk, sponsored by Medicash.

This year's fundraiser on Friday 6 May is in aid of St Joseph's Hospice and is being billed as the Ladies Midnight Carnival Walk. Those taking part in the 10k event can enjoy live music from a Samba band, non-alcoholic cocktails, and a warm up with moves from the Latin inspired fitness dance craze, Zumba. 

Starting and finishing at Holy Family High School Thornton, the walk aims to attract over 500 women and has a fundraising target of £45,000. Based in Thornton, Jospice was established in 1974 and has cared for over 5000 people and their families. The hospice has annual running costs of over £2.5m.

Jospice's director of fundraising Pat Murphy said: "The walk is open to ladies of all fitness levels and it's a great way to raise some money, have a laugh with your fellow walkers, and burn a few calories too! Jospice provides essential care to local people suffering from terminal illness and thanks to the support of the community we are able to continue that care year on year." 

Liverpool based health cash plan provider Medicash has sponsored the fundraising event since it was launched six years ago. Chief executive of Medicash Sue Weir said: "The success of the walk is testament to the loyalty of local people who support this charity and in doing so safeguard the invaluable service Jospice provides to patients and their families. Medicash is delighted to sponsor the event again."

Other sponsors include Holy Family High School, Sefton PCT, Merseytravel, Sainsbury's, Lions and Merseyside Police. BBC Radio Merseyside's Roger Phillips will officially launch the walk on the night for the second year running.

Well known supporters of Jospice include Cherie Booth QC, who is vice president of the charity, Liverpool actress Pauline Daniels and actor and broadcaster Dean Sullivan.