Striding it out to a total of £28k for North Lincolnshire hospice

Around 400 people - including many from the Isle - donned their trainers for Sunset Stride and marched eight or five-and-a-half miles around the streets of Scunthorpe.

Lisa McWilliam has participated in Sunset Stride for six years and she has been a supporter of the hospice for most of her life.

She said: “I love taking part in it- the atmosphere is special as people are all walking for a reason. It’s poignant as it feels like the hospice is such a big part of the community.

“It’s also an opportunity to spend time with my mum, cousin and friend Sam as well as getting some exercise! Between the four of us we raised a fantastic £600 this year.”

The reason for Lisa’s dedicated fundraising is because she “truly values” and “appreciates” the services from her own experiences.

“It’s hard to explain just how much we valued the hospice at such a heart breaking time,” added Lisa.

“In July 2009 the hospice cared for my dad, Ernest McWilliam, in the final two weeks of his life. He went in for respite care during his battle with prostate cancer and sadly passed away during his stay.

“The hospice was an indescribable service to my dad and to our whole family. They provided outstanding care to him and ensured that his final weeks were as comfortable as possible - treating him as a human being with dignity rather than just a patient.

“They also ensured that our family was cared for - my mum, my brother and I were able to stay with my dad overnight for several nights and this was invaluable.”

Andy Hirst from Lindsey Lodge Hospice said the service really appreciates fundraisers like Lisa as every penny really does count and make a difference.

“We would also like to thank everyone for participating and making this event such a success this year,” added Andy, events and fundraising coordinator at the hospice.

“We are confident in beating last year’s figure of over £30,000 as we have a lot more sponsor money to come in. So if you haven’t already sent in your sponsor money, please do!”

Plans are already underway for next year’s event which will have an exciting twist.

You can now register for a similar, but festive walk, called Santa Stride which takes place on Saturday 5th December. For more information visit Santa Stride