Walk to Remember Raises £134,000 for St Mary’s Hospice
The annual Walk to Remember has raised £134,000 for St Mary’s Hospice, with more than 1,200 people taking part in a special night of remembrance and fundraising across south Cumbria.
The event took place on Friday, 4 September 2026, bringing together families, friends and supporters who wanted to remember loved ones while helping fund vital hospice services. Participants walked together through the evening, creating an opportunity for reflection and shared support. The event has become an important fixture in the local fundraising calendar, combining a personal tribute to those who have died with practical help for people living with serious illnesses.
Walkers could choose between two routes to suit their abilities and circumstances. The main challenge covered 10 miles from Ulverston to Barrow, while a shorter five-mile route finished in Dalton. Both options allowed people to participate in the event and contribute to the hospice’s work. The choice of distances also made it possible for families and supporters with different levels of walking experience to join the community effort.
Despite challenging winds during the September event, participants continued along the routes to complete their walks. The atmosphere was marked by remembrance, encouragement and a shared commitment to supporting the hospice. Many people took part in memory of family members or friends, while others walked to show their appreciation for the care provided to patients and their families throughout the region.
Mel Dixon, events and challenges manager at St Mary’s Hospice, praised the community response and thanked everyone who walked, volunteered, donated or supported participants. She said the turnout demonstrated the strength of the local community, with people sharing memories and supporting one another throughout the evening. The event’s success reflected the combined efforts of participants and volunteers who helped make the walk possible.
The funds raised will help St Mary’s Hospice continue providing specialist care for people living with life-shortening illnesses. The hospice also supports families, carers and loved ones, offering assistance during difficult periods of illness and bereavement. Fundraising events are an important part of maintaining these services, helping the organisation continue its work across the local community.
The annual walk has grown into a major event for the hospice, attracting more than a thousand participants and raising substantial sums for its services. Its appeal lies in combining physical activity with a meaningful opportunity to remember people who are no longer here. For many participants, the walk offers a way to celebrate loved ones’ memories while supporting other families who may need hospice care in the future.
Organisers have also confirmed that registration for Walk to Remember 2027 is open, giving supporters an opportunity to take part in next year’s event. The continued interest in the walk provides encouragement for the hospice as it plans future fundraising activities. Participants, volunteers and donors all play a role in sustaining the event and helping ensure that local patients and families can access compassionate support.
The £134,000 total highlights the impact that a community fundraising event can have on a local charity. Beyond the money raised, Walk to Remember offers people an opportunity to come together, share memories and support a service that helps families through some of life’s most difficult experiences. St Mary’s Hospice has thanked everyone who contributed to making this year’s event a success.
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