Walk for Wards 2023 raises record amount for Stars Appeal

More than 2,000 people took part in the summer

Author: Faye TryhornPublished 24th Nov 2023

The Stars Appeal's raised a record-breaking total of £157,922 at the 2023 Walk for Wards event.

Over 2,000 walkers made their way around the grounds of Wilton House for the flagship fundraising event for Salisbury District Hospital’s charityback in July.

Many took part to thank the hospital for the care they or their family have received across various wards and departments, with some dedicating their walk in memory of a friend, parent, sibling or child.

A total of 41 different wards, departments and Stars Appeal projects benefited from the sponsorship raised by walkers.

The Walk for Wards event has become a staple in the South Wiltshire calendar to support the Stars Appeal

Dr Tracey Parker, Consultant Haematologist and Stars Appeal Ambassador, who addressed the crowd before the start of the walk, said:

“We are deeply touched and hugely grateful that so many of our patients and their families took part in Walk for Wards 2023 and, despite the challenging times we face, raised this record-breaking sum of money.

“Every day I see first-hand the difference the charity makes for patients, their loved ones, and staff through the incredible range of projects that Stars Appeal supporters enable us to fund. I want to say a massive thank you to every single person who took part, sponsored somebody, volunteered, or helped organise Walk for Wards for their support.”

Participants chose to walk either a 10k, 5k or 3k route, which took in the beautiful surroundings of the Wilton Estate, the home of Stars Appeal President the Earl of Pembroke.

Walk for Wards is sponsored by Salisbury Reds and all the routes were marshalled by a team, which included local Rotary Club members.

The previous Walk for Wards record was in 2016 when £121,000 was raised.

Registration is already open on the Stars Appeal website for Walk for Wards 2024 |newtab) on Sunday 7th July at Wilton House.

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