Friends’ 50th birthday challenge to support St Catherine’s

Two friends who turned 50 in the last year are celebrating their milestone birthdays by taking part in St Catherine’s Hospice’s biggest sponsored fundraising event – the Moonlight and Memories Walk.

Ellen Whittingham and Louise Houghton decided that their special birthday year was the perfect time to finally take on the popular fundraiser, after hearing from other friends, relatives and colleagues what a fantastic night it is.

They will be walking in memory of several shared acquaintances and colleagues they have lost in the past year, and especially for Louise’s dad Roy and Ellen’s mum Barbara.

The event on Saturday July 6th is just two days before Ellen turns 51, and she said it was the perfect way to end her milestone year.

Ellen, who lives in Longridge, said: “My birthday celebrations began last summer with a trip to the Edinburgh Military Tattoo – and taking part in the walk is a lovely way to finish my 50th birthday year.

“It’s something Louise and I have been meaning to do for years, so this year we finally made it happen. Lots of people have told us what a brilliant event it is so we’re really looking forward to it.

“It will be nice to take part together and do something positive for our local community and our local hospice.”

Louise, from Goosnargh, added: “I’m sure it’s going to be a very special night – people have told us what a great atmosphere there is so we’re looking forward to experiencing it for ourselves whilst showing our support for St Catherine’s.”

Emma Jacovelli, Head of Community Engagement at St Catherine’s, said: “We’re delighted to be welcoming Ellen and Louise to our Moonlight and Memories Walk for the first time.

“It’s fantastic to hear such positive feedback from their family and friends and we hope the night provides a fitting end to their birthday celebrations, whilst remembering those close to them. It’s not too late to join the event this year – so if you, like Ellen and Louise, have put it off in the past, why not make 2019 the year you give it a try? Not only do we promise a very special night out, but you’ll be helping us to provide our specialist care for local people who need us.”

The Moonlight and Memories Walk takes place on Saturday July 6th featuring either a four or 10-mile route.

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