400 supporters unite for Saint Francis Hospice Memory Walk

More than 400 people came together for Saint Francis Hospice's third consecutive Memory Walk, raising £37,000 so far while remembering loved ones and supporting local hospice care.

Held at Raphael Park in Romford on Sunday 6 September, the event saw participants complete either the full 5km route or a shorter walk around the beautiful park. It was an emotional day of remembrance, but also one filled with smiles, laughter and community spirit as friends and families shared memories, supported one another and celebrated the lives of those they love.

Supporters were officially set off by Great British Bake Off star and hospice supporter Andy Ryan, who rang the ceremonial bell before the Romford Drum and Trumpet Corps led walkers on their way.

Andy said: "It's such a lovely day to come together, enjoy a walk and think about all of our loved ones. It's a privilege to be part of such a special event that means so much to so many people."

The event was also attended by the Mayor of Havering, Councillor Maggie Themistocli, who came along to show her support for participants, volunteers and Saint Francis Hospice.

Charlotte Winder, Events and Community Manager at Saint Francis Hospice, said: "Our Memory Walk is always a very special day, bringing together people from across our community to remember loved ones while celebrating their lives.

"This year's event was incredibly emotional at times, but it was also full of smiles, laughter, friendship and support as more than 400 people came together at Raphael Park.

"Whether participants completed the full 5km route or chose the shorter walk, every step taken will help support local people and families who rely on Saint Francis Hospice."

"I'd like to say a huge thank you to everyone who took part and to all those who helped make the day such a success. Our volunteers give their time so generously and are at the heart of events like this. Alongside our marshals, entertainers, stallholders, supporters and staff, they helped create a welcoming and memorable day for everyone who attended."

The day offered much more than the walk itself, with entertainment for children, live music, food stalls and a festival atmosphere that brought the community together. Saint Francis Hospice Community Lead Andy Furneaux, who is also a talented DJ, kept the music flowing throughout the event, helping to create an uplifting atmosphere of celebration alongside moments of reflection and remembrance. Skip Atkins sang and played guitar for walkers as they passed by, while talented saxophonist Sue Floyd entertained supporters in the main event area as families and friends gathered to relax, reflect and enjoy the day together. The Funky Voices choir also kept people captivated and on their toes.

Many participants walked in memory of loved ones cared for by Saint Francis Hospice.

Among them was Jill Gellard, who took part alongside her daughter Tracy and granddaughter Elsie in memory of her husband Richard, who was cared for by the Hospice at Home team, and her daughter-in-law, who died from breast cancer aged just 34.

Tracy Fuller said: "It's been a great day and the sun has been shining. We've chatted all the way around the route. We've raised £1,300 for the hospice and I feel so proud and emotional to be doing that in memory of my dad and my sister-in-law."

Michelle Champion walked with her sons Jake and Carter and their partners in memory of her father, Mickey.

Michelle said: "When my dad was very poorly, the Saint Francis Hospice nurses came out and sat with us during some of the hardest days. They were so supportive to both me and my mum. We're incredibly grateful to have this service in our community and they deserve all the support they can get."

Wendy Roffe took part alongside her daughter Amy and other family members in memory of her husband, Ray. The family started their day by walking from Saint Francis Hospice to Raphael Park before joining hundreds of others taking part in the Memory Walk.

Wendy said: "Another fantastic walk arranged by Saint Francis Hospice which we did in memory of my husband Ray. My daughter Amy and I started our walk at the hospice and joined many others to complete our walk at Raphael Park. Our donations for the walk totalled an amazing £1,765, taking our fundraising total to more than £17,000 since the loss of Ray in 2020. We will continue to do all we can to support the hospice for everything they have done."

Dave, who was walking with friends and family in memory of baby Hugo and in recognition of the care his own family received from the hospice after his wife died, said: "Saint Francis Hospice helped me and my son through one of the most difficult times of our lives. The care, counselling and support we received meant so much to us. I can't thank the team enough for what they do for local families."

Not all participants had a personal connection to the hospice. Jay Parmar, who walked with his wife Gira and son Arion, said: "We're so glad we came along. We don't have a connection with Saint Francis Hospice, but we wanted to get involved and support our local community."