This year, Florence Nightingale Hospice Charity’s annual Midnight Walk will be open to everyone aged 11+ on 23rd June.

“We asked the public whether they would like the event to be open to men and boys as well as women and girls,”explains Jo Turner, Head of Fundraising at the Charity. “80% of respondents said they would like men to take part.”

While the majority were in favour of the change, some fear that it will affect its unique atmosphere. “It’s nice to celebrate with girlfriends in a relaxed atmosphere. I feel that may change and become more competitive,”said one respondent.

However, many pointed out that men wish to support the Hospice as well. “Men also lose loved ones to cancer or suffer from cancer just the same as ladies,” one lady wrote.

The Charity also asked if people would like to change the distances to a 5 mile route and a 10 mile route. “54% of respondents said they would prefer a choice of five or ten miles, and so we have decided to trial this,”says Jo.

The Midnight Walk will take place on 23 June 2018, starting and finishing at Aylesbury College as usual. The Midnight Walk is FNHC’s largest fundraising event and last year raised over £55,000 for the Hospice.

Entry is £20. Walkers receive a free souvenir Midnight Walk 2018 T-shirt, a medal and breakfast at the finish.

To sign up, please visit www.fnhospice.org.uk/midnightwalk