Superheroes to Power Fundraising at East Cheshire Hospice Starlight Walk
Employees from consumer law firm Bott and Co will transform into caped crusaders for a poignant fundraising event next month. The team will participate in the East Cheshire Hospice Starlight Walk at Capesthorne Hall on Thursday, April 16, wearing specially crafted superhero costumes.
A Personal Tribute and a Corporate Mission
The walk carries profound significance for Ann McLoughlin, operations manager at Bott and Co, who is creating the costumes. Her late husband, Kevin, passed away at the hospice in early last year at the age of 61. Kevin, a dedicated fitness enthusiast, had completed over 30 marathons and was training for a 50-mile ultra marathon when he was diagnosed with aggressive bowel cancer in 2023.
"Kevin didn't want to die at home and went to the Hospice two days before he passed away," Ann shared. "It was such a relief as looking after him at home was challenging. The hospice were lovely. I don't know how the nurses do their job. I get upset just remembering how kind they were."
Inspired by Kevin's story and the compassionate care he received, Bott and Co has committed to raising £25,000 for the hospice as part of its 25th-anniversary celebrations. This corporate goal amplifies the personal fundraising efforts of staff members.
Community and Colleagues Unite for a Cause
Ann, who describes herself as handy with a sewing machine, is designing sunflower-themed superhero costumes with capes for her colleagues. "It should be fun," she remarked. Last year, the team raised £1,200 by participating in the memory walk, and they will join her again this year.
The firm's support extends beyond the walk. Employees at its Wilmslow headquarters, which houses over 100 staff, will undertake various activities to contribute to the £25,000 target. Funds raised from group events will be donated directly to the hospice. Additionally, Bott and Co will match funds raised by individuals for their own chosen charities, with those proceeds also benefiting the hospice.
One notable individual effort includes employee Hannah Baxby, who is running a marathon in the Sahara Desert.
Event Details and How to Participate
The Starlight Walk features a 2.5-kilometer loop route. Participants can complete as many laps as they wish between 7:15 PM and 9:45 PM. Gates open at 6:00 PM, with an event village offering:
- Live entertainment
- Food and drink vendors
- A community atmosphere
An early bird registration offer is available, expiring on Monday, March 16. Managing partner and firm co-founder Paul Hinchliffe emphasized the importance of the cause: "The Hospice is particularly close to our hearts as staff members and their families have personally experienced its compassionate care and support. We aim to raise £25,000 to support its vital work."
This event highlights how personal loss can inspire collective action, blending remembrance with hope through community engagement and spirited fundraising.
