BLOG: Legion of local ladies go back to the 80s
Gathering together for the city’s most popular ladies’ night out, St Luke’s Midnight Walk, more than 1,300 women pounded the pavements on 20 July, raising funds for the specialist end of life care we provide for people at home, in hospital and at our specialist unit at Turnchapel.
Stepping back in time and getting into the groove for this year’s fun 80s theme, the ladies shimmied in shoulder-pads and lunged in Lycra and legwarmers, setting off from the city centre on a 13, eight or three-mile route. Having loads of fun with friends and making it a night to remember, many were there celebrating the lives of lost loved ones and cherishing precious memories as they made new ones.
Along the way, the ladies continued to wholeheartedly embrace the 80s theme, with hair crimping, themed make-up and selfie stops against the backdrop of an 80s teenager’s bedroom.
Among those taking part in the event was Louise Dinham from Whitleigh.
She said: “Taking part in Midnight Walk is my way of thanking St Luke’s for the amazing way they looked after Dad so he could be at home, where he wanted to be. It’s a charity that really needs our support so they can be there for other families, too”
Medal in hand, and with an overwhelming sense of achievement, many of the participants then went on to dance the night away to a host of 80s anthems at Popworld in the city centre, where the after party took place.
Head of Fundraising at St Luke’s, Penny Hannah, said: “From the dedications on the backs of all the tee-shirts it was clear to see the positive impact St Luke’s has had on so many local families in need at a time of crisis.
“We are hoping this year’s event will raise in the region of £165,000, as it did last year, enough to provide a complete package of care at home for 165 families, not just in Plymouth, but in South Hams and Dartmoor, too.
“I want to thank not only the ladies for taking part, but the people who made the event possible. That includes our army of amazing volunteers, our sponsors Nash & Co Solicitors, PL1 Events and the many other businesses and organisations who got behind us, as well as my fantastic St Luke’s colleagues for all their hard work in making it such a big success.”
Since Midnight Walk first began in 2007, the event has raised over £2m for St Luke’s care, powered by a caring community who have walked a total 233,677 miles for the charity they keep close to their heart.
