MORE than 2,000 women across Ipswich are set to make big strides next week in the name of charity.

MORE than 2,000 women across Ipswich are set to make big strides next week in the name of charity.

St Elizabeth Hospice's Midnight Walk has attracted unprecedented attention, with an amazing 2,230 people taking part, compared to just the 200 who signed up for it last year.

Among those gearing up for the eight-mile circular walk on Saturday, May 23, is a group of staff from Highcliff Veterinary Practice in Cliff Lane.

Claire Thomas, head nurse, along with eight colleagues, Nicol Chopping, Naomi Geater, Sue Kite, Donna Thorrington, Sophie Tarrant, Teresa Driver, Rachel Fletcher and Laura Barcham, have so far raised �1,000 through sponsorship.

Mrs Thomas, whose mother was cared for at the hospice before she died from cancer last year, said: “One of the vets here, Isobel Wilkins, had cancer and passed away this January. We wanted to do the walk in memory of her and also because some people here have lost loved ones to cancer.

“We are all going to be in fancy dress. We are going to be cat burglars and will be handcuffed together.”

The event starts and finishes at the Copleston Centre in Foxhall Road and refreshments will be available along the route.

Registration is �10 and includes a T-shirt, certificate, goody bag and refreshments.

The hospice has been accepting applications until today. Organisers of the walk are also appealing for volunteers to help on the night.

Patsy Johnson, events co-ordinator at St Elizabeth Hospice, said: “Although the Midnight Walk is a ladies-only event, we are looking for both male and female volunteers.

“Volunteers are required during the day to help with putting up signs, general administration and organisational support. The husbands or boyfriends of women taking part could volunteer while they are waiting for them.”

For more information about volunteering or the event itself, contact the fundraising office on 01473 723600, e-mail fundraising@stelizabethhospice.org.uk or visit www.stelizabethhospice.org.uk

Are you doing something in aid of charity? Write to Your Letters, Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN, or e-mail eveningstarletters@eveningstar.co.uk .