HEARTY bands of brave pirates shivered their timbers in cold wet conditions at an annual fundraiser with a difference.
The St Teresa’s Hospice Midnight Walk kicked off at 10pm for the first time with 140 walkers tackling two laps of Darlington’s South Park in pirate dress.
For staff at Cleveland Terrace Dental Practice it was a chance to remember popular dentist Ian Alexander who died last year from cancer.
The 47-year-old received palliative care at St Teresa’s Hospice, which supports patients and their families in Darlington, South Durham and North Yorkshire.
His colleagues Terri Weston, Nicola Mulcrone, Judy Bowes, Jane Pedleham and Michelle Horner had mixed emotions of a memorable occasion.
Terri said: “Ian was such a lovely man and loved by all his patients. While the event was great fun it was also very emotional but Ian would have been proud of us, particularly Michelle who won the fancy dress competition with her ghost pirate costume.”
Judy added: “Ian is sadly missed and well remembered every day. We were all aware of St Teresa’s Hospice but didn’t appreciate what a fantastic job its staff do until Ian became ill. We were delighted to raise more than £400 to help them continue their work.”
Now in its tenth year, the annual walk has raised in excess of £100,000 for the hospice.
Walkers were entertained by Backscratch Theatre Co and received a pirate goody bag, a hot drink and a bacon roll or Caribbean fruit pot at the finish line.
St Teresa’s Hospice chief executive Jane Bradshaw added: “It always amazes me just how many ladies are prepared to turn out for the Midnight Walk and how incredible the atmosphere is despite the lateness of hour and, this year, weather conditions.
“Our volunteer marshals did a great a job at an event that remains one of my firm favourites.”
Midnight Walk 2017 was supported by Houndgate Townhouse, Cornmill Centre, Securitas, 1st Stop Party Shop, Morrisons Morton Park, Asda Whinbush Way, Carillion & Speedy Asset Hire, The Fitness Centre, and Blackwell Meadows Rugby Club.