Hundreds of women will be stepping out later this year to raise money for Dorothy House Hospice Care.

The second Dorothy House midnight walk will take place on Saturday 13 September. Starting on the stroke of midnight, walkers will cover an eight-kilometre route from the hospice through Turleigh to Bradford on Avon, and back to Winsley.

Last year, more than 600 women took part and the event raised over £70,000 for patient care. This year's target is to raise £100,000, so more people can be cared for on the In-Patient Unit at Winsley.

Event organiser Phillippa Watson said: "We were amazed and delighted at the response to last year's walk, and the fantastic amount of money raised from a single event. We had hoped to make £30,000 for our Respite at Home service, and more than doubled that figure, so this year we are really raising the bar.

"Everyone who took part thoroughly enjoyed last year's walk so we hope they will sign up again this year, and encourage all their friends to take part too.

"The walk's fundraising success relies on everyone raising sponsorship. Although we don't ask for a minimum amount, people do need to raise something: the £10 registration fee only covers the costs of organising the event."

The eight-kilometre fully marshalled walk is open to women aged 16 or over on 13 September 2008. The entry fee is £10 per person. For an entry form, or more details, call fundraising on 01225 721480 or download a form from www.dorothyhouse.co.uk

  • Although the walk itself is a women-only event, men are most welcome to take part as marshals on the night: call fundraising to find out more.