Stepping out for the hospice

The event takes place on Friday, November 30 and promises to be great craic in a worthy cause.

Sprucefield Shopping Complex, managed by Tim Honeyford, will be joining seven other local businesses including the Ulster Star, Ulster Bank, Frankie & Benny’s, Purple Promotions, Print Project, Lagan Valley Island and Lagan Valley Leisure Plex who have all pledged their support to the event which aims to raise £10,000 for local children and their families in need of hospice care.

Commenting on Sprucefield’s decision to get involved, Mr Honeyford said:

“We are pleased to endorse the great work of the Children’s Hospice and welcome the charity’s first Midnight Walk to Lisburn, which will start and finish from our Sprucefield complex beside M&S at 10pm on Friday 30th November.”

For anyone who has not yet heard about this event Lynn Boyce, Events Fundraiser, explains, “Our first Lisburn Midnight Walk for Northern Ireland Children’s Hospice is open to everyone over the age of 13 looking for a festive night out with a difference. The event will kick off at 10pm from Sprucefield (M&S), with an hour of Christmas music and warm-up exercises provided by Lagan Valley Leisure Plex, before participants head off at 11pm on a four mile walk of the town.”

Lisburn city centre will be painted red as hundreds of Christmas walkers descend upon the city. Everyone is encouraged to dress up for the festive occasion and spot prizes will also be awarded for those wearing the most eye-catching Christmas outfits, which will add to the party atmosphere!

Frankie and Benny’s will also be involved in the evening’s activities. Lisburn Deputy Branch Manager, Justin Pickering explains:

‘’Frankie & Benny’s are delighted to support the Children’s Hospice as our charity of the year and we are looking forward to getting involved with this local event. On the evening we will be providing complimentary tea and coffee to all participants prior to them commencing on the four mile midnight walk at 11pm. We would like to encourage all our customers, staff and friends to get involved in what will be an unforgettable night!’’

Registration for the event costs just £10 and includes a goody bag on the night, fundraising pack and memory card for those who want to walk in memory of a loved one. Once registered, all participants are encouraged to raise £90 in walk sponsorship which will provide three hours of specialist nursing care to a child in need of hospice care.

To register to take part in the first Lisburn Midnight Walk and receive your fundraising pack please call 028 90 777 123 or log on to nihospice.org for more information. Registration leaflets can also be collected from sponsors and local shops and businesses in the area.