A mother and daughter duo are urging others to sign up for Ashgate Hospice’s Sparkle Night Walk before the early bird deal deadline, as they get set to take part in memory of their loved one. 

Amy Baker, and her mum, Dee Baker, will be helping raise funds for the hospice’s care in memory of Dee’s sister, Tina Read.  

They will be among thousands taking part in the 10km walk, sponsored by Technique, across Chesterfield on Saturday 1st July. 

Early bird registration of £10 per person for the event will end on 2nd April and people are being urged to sign up before then. 

Tina, from High Peak, was cared for on Ashgate’s Inpatient Unit before she died from cancer, aged just 55.  

Amy, 24, will travel from Kent to take part in Sparkle with her mum and wants to raise £500 to help the hospice fund care for future families who need its support.  

After enjoying the fun at last year’s event, they can’t wait to return for a second consecutive year in 2023.   

“Ashgate looked after my Auntie Tina in her final days and we cannot thank them enough, so will always do whatever we can to help – no matter how big or small!” said Amy, who works as Head of Procurement at PDS Communications. 

“Ashgate Hospice will always hold a special place in our hearts alongside my Auntie Tina, who was given so much love and care by everyone at the hospice. 

“The care was just phenomenal; she was so well looked after. I did not realise how much hospices must raise in order for people like my Auntie Tina to continue receiving the love and care that she did. 

“That’s why me and Mum have decided to come back so we can help raise funds for other families who need support like ours did.” 

Last year, the event raised £200,000 to help fund the end of life care and support the charity provides across North Derbyshire.   

The event will begin and finish at Chesterfield Football Club’s Technique Stadium, with walkers setting off at 10pm. 

Tina, who worked as a waitress, was diagnosed in 2021 and spent several weeks in the hospice before she died on 12th August 2021. 

Her life will be remembered by Amy and Dee when they join about 2,000 participants for their second Sparkle Night Walk. 

Amy added: “My Mum and I took part in the Sparkle Night Walk last year and it was incredible. It is a very enjoyable event and to know everyone is there taking part for the same reasons, to raise money for the hospice, is just amazing.  

“With so many people taking part you look in front of you and just see this spectacular sea of pink flashing lights – it was so amazing! 

“I urge anyone thinking of signing up to just go for it as it’s an evening that promises to be so much fun!” 

Volunteers are also needed to help on the night to ensure the event runs as safely and smoothly as possible.    

From being a marshal, helping on the car park, making hot drinks and more – the hospice needs more than 150 volunteers to help on the night.     

Would you like to volunteer at Ashgate Hospice’s Sparkle Night Walk? To find out more email events@ashgatehospicecare.org.uk or call 01246 567250.    

Click the button below to find out more about our Sparkle Night Walk.