Girls Night Out walk is returning – but with a difference

A popular annual Bury St Edmunds fund-raising event is set to go ahead in September – but in a different form.

St Nicholas Hospice Care has had to make changes to its Girls Night Out moonlit walk, but it still hopes participants will pull on their pyjamas and raise funds.

Since 2009, the event has been the Bury St Edmunds-based hospice's biggest annual fund-raiser, with walkers gathering on Angel Hill wearing flashing bunny ears before walking six or 11.2-mile routes around the town.

The 2020 event, sponsored by Jaynic, was due to take place on September 12, but it will not take place in its usual form.

The charity hopes as many people as possible will still complete a walking challenge this year, while adhering to all Government guidelines. This could be a six-mile or 11.2-mile route in their local area, or a different distance.

Jenny Smith, hospice events manager, said: “At first, it was hard to imagine how our biggest fund-raising event, built on community spirit and mass participation, could be done differently. What could replace an event that inspires people to raise £200,000 each year?

“During these uncertain times, we have heard and read many wonderful stories of people continuing to make a difference in spite of challenges. We hope a virtual version of the walk can be another memorable event and example of the community getting behind an important cause.”

For those wishing to register for the event, which is also sponsored by Treatt, Chassis Cab, Sanofi, Marham Park developer Countryside and Greene King, there is a £20 suggested donation while those wishing to could raise extra funds by making their challenge a sponsored one.

The challenge is open to all.

“I’d like to say a big thank you to all those who have already pledged their support. It is only because of the generosity and kindness of our community and sponsors that we are able to continue.

"Please save the date and join us. Together, we can make a difference,” added Jenny.

Registrations for Jaynic’s Girls Night Out will open on June 26. In the run-up to the event the hospice will be paying close attention to Government guidelines. Should the situation change the charity may need to make further changes.

Last year's Girls Night Out raised £224,699.