The skies may have been grey but on the ground Southport became a sea of sky blue as the annual Star Trekk night walk for Queenscourt Hospice took place.
Over 1,000 trekkers donned sky blue Star Trekk t-shirts as they gathered at Southport Pleasureland for the start of the 10k event, which this year was sponsored by EFT Group Ltd.
The Southport firm is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year.
Walkers take part in the 2024 Star Trekk night walk to raise money for Queenscourt Hospice.
Photo by Andrew Brown Stand Up For Southport
Andy Hilbert and Hayley Jones from Dune Radio got the atmosphere going, helped by songs from West End star Joan Coates, moves from Queenscourt Strictly winner Neil Shallcross and a warm up from Sarah Dack McGuinness.
There were some fantastic costumes on show, including Tracy Hall and her family, who turned up as Cruella De Vil and several Dalmatian dogs and puppies in their tribute to 101 Dalmatians.
Peter Croome turned up with his Mr Whippy ice cream van to get out free ice cream to fundraisers and volunteers, while accepting donations for Queenscourt.
Peter Croome with his Mr Whippy ice cream van with Queenscourt Hospice Fundraising Manager Liz Hartley
The walkers left Pleasureland and headed up along Marine Drive, past Southport Pier, over the Marine Way Bridge, past Silcock’s Funland and Carousel, along Lord Street, towards Kewe and past Queenscourt Hospice, through Birkdale Village and back to Southport Pleasureland, where medals were given out and thanks given.
There was lots of entertainment for walkers to enjoy through the course, with performers along the route.
Speaking on the Stand Up For Southport Facebook group, Southport Slimming World Consultant Dee Wright, who walked with several members of her group, said: “Well done everyone who took part, what an amazing event for our incredible Queenscourt Hospice.
Walkers take part in the 2024 Star Trekk night walk to raise money for Queenscourt Hospice.
Photo by Andrew Brown Stand Up For Southport
“It was a wonderful evening despite the drizzle! And I’m proud of almost 40 members from my Slimming World Southport with Dee groups who took part, either walking or marshalling!”
Nicky Pimlott said: “Absolutely fabulous. Well done everyone.”
Carol Thompson said: “Brilliant night. Well organised and loved the ice cream. Thanks to all the marshalls.”
Southport Pleasureland owner Norman Wallis with Queenie the bee at Star Trekk
Ruth Gray said: “Was a brilliant evening, so well organised really fun. Thank you everyone for the organisation and support.”
Since Star Trekk began 18 years ago thousands of trekkers have raised over £1 million for Queenscourt Hospice.
The walk is a healthy, energising and fun event open to everyone. You can take part on your own, with family and friends, with your exercise class, with your work colleagues, with your school, the choice is yours.
Walkers take part in the 2024 Star Trekk night walk to raise money for Queenscourt Hospice.
Photo by Andrew Brown Stand Up For Southport
Many trekkers walk in memory of a loved one or because Queenscourt has supported them personally, while others take part for a fun night out and to raise money for their local hospice.
People are already being invited to sign up for Star Trekk in 2025.
Walkers take part in the 2024 Star Trekk night walk to raise money for Queenscourt Hospice. Hayley Jones from Dune Radio with Neil Shallcross
Photo by Andrew Brown Stand Up For Southport
A Queenscourt Hospice spokesperson said: “If you loved Friday night as much as we did we know you will already be getting excited for next year’s Star Trekk event!
“For the first time EVER, we are releasing a Super Early Bird ticket price of just £10 for Star Trekk 2025!
“You can’t miss this deal… sign up today via our website and secure your place for the most talked about night in Southport!
www.queenscourt.org.uk/startrekkearlybird
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