HUNDREDS of local people across Chester will be hitting the city centre for the much anticipated Chester Sparkle Walk later this year.

Now in its fourth year, the 5K sponsored walk will start at Grosvenor Park at 10pm on on Friday, June 17, with registration and the fun all kicking off in the park from 7.30pm supporting the Backford-based charity the Hospice of the Good Shepherd.

The Chester Sparkle Walk returns to the city this June.

The Chester Sparkle Walk returns to the city this June.

Early bird tickets are now on sale for a limited time and people can register at at www.hospicegs.com/sparkle or call 01244 851 811.

Nicola Suggitt, community and events fundraiser, said: “The Sparkle Walk gives you the chance to see Chester in a new light and dazzle the streets of the city centre with an array of sparkle, neon and glitter. Why not take advantage of the early bird rate at just £15, saving you £5 if you sign up now!

“It’s such an important part of the Chester events calendar, having raised thousands of pounds in previous years to support direct patient care. It's such a great way for people to get together and celebrate this amazing city and the work of the Hospice; there is always such a fantastic atmosphere on the night.

“Whether you are walking in memory of someone or just want to have fun while supporting a great local cause, you most definitely do not want to miss out.

The Chester Sparkle Walk returns to the city this June.

The Chester Sparkle Walk returns to the city this June.

"We’d love as many people as possible to join us so get yourself and your gang ready to sparkle at this year’s brightest event in Chester.”

Participants will receive a fundraising pack and a unique T-shirt to don during the walk, and will also receive an exclusive 2022 medal on completion. 

The Hospice, which is not part of the NHS, receives only 25 per cent of its income from government funding, meaning it has to raise just over £3 million each year from donations, fundraising events and charity shops which are now all on hold.

For over 30 years, the Hospice of the Good Shepherd has provided end of life care to patients living with life limiting conditions from Chester, West Cheshire and Ellesmere Port.

They provide a 10 bedded in-patient unit, a Living Well Centre which provides day support to help patients maintain their independence and to stay at home longer as well as bereavement support for both adults and children across the catchment area whether or not the death of their loved one was connected to the Hospice.