More than £15k raised in Sue Ryder Starlight Hike around the grounds of Pangbourne College, as people remembered their loved ones

Hundreds of walkers donned their best fancy dress and glow-in-the-dark accessories on for a special hike under the stars to celebrate the memory of their loved ones.

The Sue Ryder Starlight Hike Thames Valley, sponsored by Azego, saw more than 250 people of all ages take on a walk in support of the charity at Pangbourne College on Saturday (October 22).

Teams and individuals sporting bright-coloured clothing, flashing headwear and neon face paint enjoyed live music and a fun warm up before setting out on the 5km route around the college grounds.

During the event there was also an opportunity for participants to place a poignant dedication in honour of someone special to them.

Among those taking part was Samantha Saye, 46, from Goring, whose partner Ivan Hooker died in 2020 at the age of just 44.

She was joined by their children, William, 10, and Eleanor, six, who named their team ‘Ivan's Immortals’.

The Starlight Hike at the weekend is expected to raise more than £15,500 to help Sue Ryder provide expert and compassionate palliative care.

Meghan Bentley, community fundraiser, said: “We’re absolutely blown away by everyone’s support for this year’s Starlight Hike, turning out in their brightest lights and outfits to make the night an amazing success. You all looked brilliant!

"Thank you to our sponsor, Azego, all our supporters, and of course our dedicated team of volunteers and marshals, without whom we would simply not be able to put on this fantastic event.

“At Sue Ryder we believe that the end of someone’s life is the most important time of their life. Our care teams do all they can to make room for the things that matter – like spending time with loved ones, sharing stories, memories, and filling their final days with love.

“It’s really poignant that Sue Ryder Starlight Hike Thames Valley has helped people make some special memories together, while remembering and celebrating the lives of loved ones who are no longer with us. We hope to welcome you back next year.”

Last year Sue Ryder provided more than 830,000 hours of care to thousands of families across the country, including from its Sue Ryder Duchess of Kent Hospice in Reading and Sue Ryder Palliative Care Hub South Oxfordshire.

Pictures by Tony Hackett Photography