“Volunteering at an event as popular as the Sparkle Night Walk feels amazing – everyone is in such high spirits and being part of it makes me very proud.” 

 Ashgate Hospice fundraising volunteer Sarah Thomas has been giving up her time to help at the popular 10km walk, sponsored by Technique, since her partner Jackie Waring died in 2017. 

 Not only does volunteering give her a great sense of pride and satisfaction, but Sarah says being part of the event on the night and helping in its preparation has been a welcome antidote to her grief. 

 More than 2,500 walkers will be joining in with the party atmosphere in Chesterfield on Saturday 1st July, which means 200 volunteers are needed to ensure the event runs like clockwork. 

 Sarah, who enjoys helping as a marshal and handing out medals, is inviting others to join her on the night.  

She said: “My partner Jackie was cared for at Ashgate Hospice and died in April 2017; the care she received was outstanding and the nurses were always on hand to help.  

“I have been volunteering at the Sparkle Night Walk for years – it is a vibrant and exciting event which sadly because of my physical difficulties I cannot walk myself. 

“But I can still be a part of it by helping with organising the medal party, manning the medal station, and assisting as the first marshal as well!” 

There are a variety of roles available for volunteers from helping in the Event Village at Chesterfield Football Club to being a marshal out on the route cheering on walkers and making sure they feel safe.  

The walk starts at 10pm, with people arriving at the Technique Stadium from 7:30pm. 

Sarah added: “I’d urge anyone thinking about helping out to just give it a go! There is so much variety in helping in fundraising and there promises to be something which suits you.  

“You get to experience what goes into amazing events like the Sparkle Night Walk and you feel valued and know that you will have contributed.    

“I just love being able to give something back. The hospice was there ready and waiting for us to use and it gives me a sense of responsibility to make sure the hospice is still here for others or myself in the future.” 

Register an interest in being a volunteer at the Sparkle Night Walk on our website or call the fundraising team on 01246 568801.