Braving the elements to support St Catherine’s Hospice

Walkers braved high tides and howling winds to complete an eight-mile trek across Morecambe Bay to raise cash for St Catherine’s Hospice.
The popular scenic walkfrom Arnside to Kents Bank takes in spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding Lakeland Hills and Lancashire and Yorkshire countryside. It was led by Cedric Robinson MBE, the Queen’s Guide to the Sands who has led thousands of people safely across them in his 50 years of leading walks in the area.
Among the 110 people taking part this year was 86-year-old Cyril Alston, who also volunteers twice a week at the hospice arranging flowers for patients’ bedrooms.

Cyril, who has raised more than £300 in sponsorship from the walk, said: “I have done the Morecambe Bay Walk before around five years ago. I thought I would like to do it again, and I knew if I didn’t do it this year then I’d never do it – I think 86 is probably quite old enough!
“It was hard going due to the biting wind and the water had risen very high at one point – it was right up to the top of our legs. But everyone was very supportive and we kept each other going. I felt rather stiff the next day though that’s for sure!”
The former grocer, who lives in Longton, added: “I’m really pleased with the achievement and am delighted to have raised such a great amount of money to support St Catherine’s. I see the wonderful work that goes on there each week and wanted to do my bit to help.”

Lynne Whittaker, senior fundraiser at St Catherine’s Hospice who took part in the walk, said: “We’re very grateful to everyone who took part in this year’s Morecambe Bay Walk and braved the conditions with a very British stiff upper lip and no complaints.
“The money raised will support the specialised care we provide to patients in the local community living with life-limiting conditions, as well as their families and loved ones.”

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