Record-Breaking Turnout for Ashgate Hospice's High Peak Trail Walk
A record number of participants laced up their walking boots this weekend to tackle Ashgate Hospice's High Peak Trail Walk, raising more than £75,000 to support palliative and end-of-life care across North Derbyshire. The event, sponsored by Darwin Forest Luxury Lodge Holidays, saw an impressive 721 supporters take part, surpassing last year's total of 580 walkers and marking the biggest event to date.
Fundraising Success and Emotional Journeys
Fundraising has already reached £75,000, with donations continuing to pour in. Every pound raised will help Ashgate Hospice provide essential care to people with life-limiting illnesses and their loved ones. Among the participants was Helen Bird, 55, who completed the 11-mile route in memory of her friend Dave Smith, who died in June 2025 at age 58 after being diagnosed just two months prior.
Dave received care at Ashgate Hospice's Inpatient Unit on the day of his death. Helen shared, "Even though he was only there for a few hours, the care made all the difference. The nurses were so kind and everything just felt right. We were able to sit with him, together, and that meant everything." Helen has raised over £1,000 so far, supported by friends, family, and colleagues, and was cheered across the finish line by Dave's wife, Sarah.
Personal Reflections and Community Spirit
Helen described the walk as "much harder than I thought it would be" but also "really special." She added, "There were moments where it was very emotional, especially setting off and coming towards the end. I did a lot of it on my own, which gave me time to think. Then there were moments where people would stop and chat, and even people who remembered Dave. It just made it feel really personal." After crossing the finish line, Helen marked the occasion by raising a glass of Dave's favorite drink, Guinness, poured into his engraved glass.
Event Highlights and Future Opportunities
Participants chose from three routes along the historic High Peak Trail: 3.5, 11, or 17 miles. They set off throughout the morning and finished in the afternoon to applause from volunteers and supporters waiting at the trail's end. James Branson, events and community fundraising manager at Ashgate Hospice, expressed gratitude, saying, "To see 721 people come together like this was incredibly special. The High Peak Trail Walk continues to grow each year, and this weekend really showed what it means to so many people."
He emphasized, "Everyone who took part was walking with a purpose—whether that was in memory of someone, to say thank you, or simply to support local hospice care. We're so grateful to every single person who signed up, donated, volunteered, or cheered walkers on. The money raised will help us continue to be there for the people who need us, now and in the future."
Registration for next year's High Peak Trail Walk is now open. Those interested in participating can find more information and sign up through the official event website.
