Children and their families became superheroes for the night as they came together to raise money for palliative and end of life care in Derbyshire.  

The charity’s Superhero Night Walk saw more than 1,600 people take part at the event in Queen’s Park, Chesterfield, on Saturday 18 October. 

Participants completed one and three-mile routes, helping to raise more than £50,000 so far towards the £11 million Ashgate must raise each year to fund its care, with sponsorship money still to come in.

From Wonder Woman to Captain America – children and adults dressed as their favourite heroes, with many walking in memory of people who had been cared for by the hospice. 

Among them was four-year-old James Masterson and his dad, Liam Masterson. They walked for James’ grandma, Jo Holmes, who died on Ashgate’s Inpatient Unit last year after being diagnosed with uterine cancer. 

They raised £105 for the hospice and completed the walk last year too. 

“Ashgate were really welcoming and warm. They made what was a horrible time feel tolerable. They looked after us and we’re so grateful they were there.” 

Hannah and Sarah were also completing the walk in memory of their mum, Lucy Bodoano, who died in the hospice in 2013 from pancreatic cancer. 

Alongside them were Sarah’s children Frank, 8, and four-year-olds Elliot and Ralph.  

“This is how we feel connected to Ashgate. The kids have been very excited to take part.” 

Each child who took part in the event, which was sponsored by Motan Colortronic Ltd, received a superhero cape and glow-in-the-dark mask to wear along the route. 

Families also enjoyed live entertainment, singers, dancers, stilt walkers and bubble displays throughout the evening. 

Dozens of volunteers gave up their time to help marshal the course and ensure everyone taking part had a safe and memorable night. 

Charlotte Butterworth, Head of Fundraising at Ashgate Hospice, said: “It was amazing to see so many little superheroes coming together to raise money for Ashgate. 

“The atmosphere was just incredible – the night was just full of so much colour, laughter and community spirit. 

“Every pound raised helps us continue providing specialist care and support to patients and the people important to them when they need us most.  

“We’re so thankful to everyone who joined in, volunteered or donated, and to our wonderful sponsors, Motan Colortronic Ltd, for their generosity and support.” 

Ashgate Hospice’s Superhero Night Walk will return again next year, with details of the 2026 event to be announced soon. 

Head to Ashgate Hospice’s website to find out more the hospice’s upcoming events or call 01246 567 250. 

Photo credit: Nick Rhodes.