Fundraisers are being invited to join St Giles Hospice’s wild and wonderful Safari Solstice Walk this summer on Saturday 17th June in Lichfield.

Safari-themed fancy dress is encouraged for this unforgettable 10k adventure around the streets of Lichfield City Centre, starting and ending at Lichfield Rugby Club.

The event is open to everyone, and St Giles is encouraging participants to fundraise as much sponsorship as possible from friends, family and colleagues, to help fund care for local people, and their loved ones, living with a terminal illness.

One person looking forward to this year’s event is Helen Saunderson from Lichfield, who took part in last year’s Solstice Walk, raising an incredible £1,000.

Helen and her family have supported St Giles for many years and have also taken part in several of the hospice’s cycling events.

Helen said: “You just hear the words ‘St Giles’ and want to help out to ensure the service is there for everybody. One day it could be you, or somebody you know that needs them. We thought the event last year was amazing and found the Moment of Reflection before the walk incredibly moving and emotional.”

Encouraging people who are thinking about signing up for this year’s walk, Helen said: “Just do it. It was a really good experience, and quite magical!”

The event kicks off in style with a welcome party at 6pm, including face painting, hair styling, live music and food and drink to get everyone in the Safari Solstice spirit. The welcome party culminates with a Moment of Reflection, with everyone joining together to release bubbles into the sky to remember loved ones.

The Solstice Walk begins at 8pm, with a 10K route around the historic city of Lichfield as the sun begins to set, with participants being welcomed back across the finish line at Lichfield Rugby Club and presented with a special Solstice Walk medal.

Following the walk, the ‘sunset celebration’ will continue until late into the evening. With live music and a fully licensed bar, it’ll be the perfect end to an amazing night.

Entry is £16 for adults (16 years and over) and £12 for children (15 years and under). Children are welcome, but under 18s must be accompanied by an adult.

For more information or to sign up to this year’s St Giles Hospice’s Safari Solstice Walk visit www.stgileshospice.com/solsticewalk

From set up to set down this event wouldn’t be possible without the help of volunteers. If anybody would like to help out at the event they can contact volunteer@stgileshospice.com