There is just over one month to go until St Elizabeth Hospice's Midnight Walk returns for 2023 this May.

Sponsored by Hawk Express Cabs, the Midnight Walk sees the independent Suffolk charity encourage the local community to don their brightest fancy dress outfits and bring the party atmosphere to Ipswich to raise funds for the hospice through sponsorship, as well as providing an opportunity to remember loved ones who are no longer with us. 

This year's event will take place on Saturday 20th May, with over 840 already signed up to take part.

One person who will be participating is Lena Porter, who will also be setting our walkers on their way as she pays tribute to her husband, Lee Porter, who died aged 46-years-old in January 2022, from bowel cancer, while under the care of St Elizabeth Hospice.  

"I did the Midnight Walk a few years ago with work colleagues, as we were keen to support such an important local charity, but I had no idea in the coming years I would have my own hospice connection," said Lena.

"When we took part in the Midnight Walk it really was a buzzing night. Lots of energy and laughter and a great party atmosphere. This time there will be plenty of meaning behind why I am taking part and I am very proud to be doing this in tribute to Lee.

"It's going to be a big night, but I will have friends and family with me as we complete our walks. Every step will be for Lee and the hospice, as we show our gratitude for the amazing care they gave him and our family."

This spring's event will be the sixteenth edition of the flagship fundraiser and will see supporters completing walking routes of 5 or 10 miles, with both routes starting at the home of Ipswich Town FC, Portman Road from 9.30pm, with on the day registration beginning at 7pm.

Both routes will take supporters from Ipswich Town Football Club at Portman Road and along Ipswich Waterfront. The five mile route will continue up to Foxhall Road to the hospice, whilst the 10 mile route will go past The Hold, Christchurch Park, to Rushmere and link up at the hospice. Both routes will return along Ipswich Waterfront, returning to ITFC's ground to end the night.

Standard tickets for £14 are available until 14th May and on the night registration will be available for £20. St Elizabeth Hospice shops will also be stocking plenty of outfit inspiration for attendees to purchase ahead of the Midnight Walk

Nichola Whymark, Head of Partnership Fundraising at St Elizabeth Hospice, said: "We are so pleased with the response we have had from the local community and hospice supporters ahead of the Midnight Walk this May and the hospice team cannot wait to join with you all for what will be a special evening.

"Thank you to Lena and her family for taking part in this year's event and for sharing their moving story which highlights why we are all participating and raising funds for the hospice and its services which makes such a difference to so many people during difficult times in their lives." 

After taking a break in 2022, while the hospice hosted the Big Hoot Ipswich 2022 art trail, the Midnight Walk returns this May with a neon theme.

Find the latest Midnight Walk news by visiting www.facebook.com/StElizabethHospiceMidnightWalk/. 

For any queries please email our events team at [email protected] 

Find out more about Hawk Express Cabs by visiting www.hawkexpresscabs.co.uk.