Walkers of all ages and abilities are being encouraged to take on Ashgate Hospice’s High Peak Trail Walk, sponsored by Darwin Forest, to raise money for end of life care in North Derbyshire. 

The walking challenge takes place on Sunday 23 March and follows the route of the former Cromford and High Peak Railway.      

From a 17-mile trek to an 11-mile ramble – the fundraiser, starting at Cromford Meadows, offers a route across the scenic Derbyshire countryside for all participants to enjoy.      

There is also an option to take part in a 3.5-mile walk for less experienced walkers or children. 

Among those taking part this year is Mick Ellison, 75, from Killamarsh, who is walking in memory of his wife of 46 years, Linda. 

Linda, who was diagnosed with gall bladder cancer, received end of life care on the hospice’s Inpatient Unit for six weeks before her death in October 2022, aged 65.    

Mick said: “I first took part in the High Peak Trail Walk last year in memory of my lovely wife of 46 years, Linda. We walked together many times in the Peak District and would stay out there all day. 

“I did the walk with my two children and we enjoyed walking along the old railway track; it gave us the opportunity to talk, spend time together and remember Linda for the kind and caring person she was. 

“We had refreshments at the Middleton Top Cafe which brought back special memories as it was a place where me and Linda had walked together before. 

“We were proud to be able to take part in an event that raised much-needed funds for Ashgate.” 

Linda and Mick met in the summer of 1974 at a nightclub in Sheffield before tying the knot three years later in 1977. 

They spent most of their married life in Killamarsh where Linda worked as a cleaner and a carer during her career. 

Mick said the “care and compassion” Linda and his family received at the end of her life was “unrivalled”. 

“Linda lived for her family,” he added. “She was kind and caring and was never happier than when she was surrounded by her four grandchildren. 

“I could not have got through the terrible time of Linda’s illness without the help and care of Ashgate Hospice. It is a place where for me the care and compassion is unrivalled. 

“Linda made a daily diary and her last entry was made on her admission to Ashgate when she said that she now felt safe, and everyone was very kind and caring.  

“I have since benefitted from the bereavement services the hospice offers and have met many lovely people and made many friendships since accessing support.  

“I cannot praise Ashgate Hospice enough for all the work they do. I’d encourage anyone thinking about taking part in the High Peak Trail Walk to just go for; you’ll have a wonderful time and be raising vital funds for such an important cause.” 

Entry costs for the High Peak Trail Walk depend on the distance of the chosen walk, but those taking on the 17-mile route and the 11-mile route will pay £15 entry per person.  

Meanwhile, adults will pay £10 for the 3.5-mile walk, while entry is £5 per child.   

Entry includes a t-shirt, medal, coach transfer to your chosen starting point and refreshments along the route.    

To register for the High Peak Trail Walk, go to Ashgate Hospice’s website or call the fundraising team on 01246 567 250.