Hundreds sparkle on Treetops Moonlight Walk

The sponsored charity night walk is estimated to have raised over £42,000 for the hospice.

Amazing energy and spirit

Julie Wesson and her brother Alex walked in memory of their uncle, Brian Wesson and to ‘give back and raise awareness of Treetops’. Treetops nurses helped care for Brian at his home in Ilkeston at the end of his life.

“The Moonlight Walk was amazing. It was great to be with everyone and there was lots of energy and spirit. We feel a bit emotional and tired but also feel really proud.”

Julie and Alex Wesson

Why the walk was important to us

“We lit a candle for our uncle Brian at Derby Cathedral. It was a chance to pause and remember why the walk was so important to us. We also remembered him as we passed Derby County football ground as he was a dedicated fan and season-ticket holder.

“It was important for us to do the Moonlight Walk tonight to say a huge heartfelt thank you to Treetops for their support. It’s a fantastic charity.”

Brian became ill in 2022 and spent a lot of time in hospital as an in-patient in 2023. It was a huge relief for him to get home and be cared for, with the help of the hospice team.

“The support from the Treetops nurses overnight and during the day meant my aunt Eileen could get some respite, some good nights’ sleep and rest, shower, and carry out daily chores knowing he was in safe hands.

“And it meant Brian could be at home with Eileen, his son Neil and grandson Jack, during the last few days of his life.”

Brian Wesson

Thank you for your support

The Moonlight Walk is Treetops biggest fundraising event of the year. Over 350 people sparkled along the 5k and 10k route on Friday 6 September, including Hits Radio East Midlands stars Jo and Sparky.

Walkers had a red carpet welcome on arrival at the starting point at Bustler Derby. They were entertained with LED stilt walkers and music along the way.

Vic Rocca, Treetops Relationships Manager for Key Events, thanked everyone who took part:

“The Moonlight Walk has been an amazing event. The atmosphere has been brilliant, and everyone’s had great fun.

Photo credit: JAKT Photography

“Our huge thanks to everyone who’s come along tonight and helped raise thousands of pounds for the hospice. The sponsorship raised means we can continue to provide all our services for free to people living with a life-limiting condition across Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire.

Local community and business involvement

“We’ve also had great support from the local community and businesses. Midland Lead sponsored the Moonlight Walk. Other support has come from Bustler Derby, Derby Cathedral, Harrison Hub at Pride Park and Rammie the Ram, and East Midlands Railway.”

Photo credit: JMS Photography