Jul 10th 2023
It was great to see over 2,000 walkers turn out to support Walk for Wards on Sunday (July 9th) at Wilton House.
Despite the weather forecast, the sun came out ready for walkers to set off on their 3k, 5k or 10k walks. We hope this year’s event will raise £100,000.
After a moments silence to remember loved ones, Martin Starke, from Greatest Hits Radio, led the countdown before Stars Appeal Ambassador, Dr Tracey Parker, along with Ian Green OBE, the Chair of Salisbury District Hospital, and David Newton, from Salisbury Reds, the event’s principal sponsor, cut the ribbon to get the walk underway.
A huge number of walkers took part to thank the Hospital, inspired by the care they or their family have received across various wards and departments, with some dedicating their walk in memory of a friend, parent, sibling or child. Many wore signs showcasing their personal reasons that have inspired them to do the walk.
Dr Parker says: “Having this support from the community means so much to me and all of the doctors, nurses and staff at the Hospital and, most importantly, the thousands of local people that the money raised will help. Thanks to the funds raised at Walk for Wards for the Stars Appeal we can do so much more to help local people in hospital.”
Money raised from the event will help towards the £1million the Stars Appeal is aiming to raise this year to fund projects including a £140,000 additional echocardiogram machine for the Cardiac Investigation Unit, support for patients with cancer, Stars Appeal Wi-Fi, and accommodation for parents on the special care baby unit and the children’s ward.
Helena Sinclair, from the Stars Appeal, who organised the walk, adds: “We’ve been overwhelmed by the tremendous support for this year’s Walk for Wards from the local community. We want to say a massive thank you to our hosts Lord and Lady Pembroke and the team at the Wilton Estate, our principal sponsors Salisbury Reds, David Huckfield and the Rotary Club marshals, and everyone who contributed to the event, making it such a brilliant success. We look forward to seeing everyone again next year!”
A date for Walk for Wards 2024 will be announced soon.
Pictures by Simon Ward Photography and Spencer Mulholland Photography. Video by Brunton Media.
