Midnight Walk 2018: Everything you need to know about St Elizabeth Hospice’s biggest annual fundraising event

Almost 2,500 people have now registered to take part in one of the biggest events to take place in Ipswich – the Midnight Walk.

The 2017 walk had a neon theme - this year, it's all about the sparkles, and some more neon. Picture: NIGE BROWN - Credit: Archant

Now in its 12th year, support for the annual event – which collects thousands of pounds for St Elizabeth Hospice – is continuing to grow.

This year, participants can take part in either a six or 10 mile walk around the town to raise money for the charity.

Both routes will stop at the hospice to allow for a moment of reflection and remembrance.

Tags will also be available for people to leave a message on the memory tree.

Event timetable

8pm: Registration opens

9pm: On stage speeches and entertainment begins

Record numbers turned out for the 2017 Midnight Walk in Ipswich. Picture: NIGE BROWN - Credit: Archant

10pm: Walk begins

11pm: First walkers expected at the hospice

11.30pm: First walkers expected at the Waterfront

12am: First walkers expected to return to Trinity Park

Huge crowds gathered at the starting line during last year's event. Picture: NIGE BROWN - Credit: Archant

How much money has been raised for the hospice in previous years?

In 2016, the Midnight Walk raised around £150,000 for the hospice after 2,200 neon-clad fundraisers – many wearing brightly coloured leg warmers, tutus, headbands and sweatbands, along with glow-in-the-dark bunny ears and glowsticks – took to the streets of Ipswich, setting off from Portman Road.

Last year saw £200,000 collected, and it’s hoped that this year will smash that total once again.

Helen Owen and Becky Jedrzejewski launching St Elizabeth Hospices 2018 Midnight Walk. Picture: GREGG BROWN

What is this year’s theme?

Dazzling costumes decorated with glitter and neon will illuminate the streets of Ipswich during this year’s Midnight Walk, organisers have revealed.

At the launch of the 2018 event, St Elizabeth Hospice chiefs said hopes are high for a record breaking year as they unveiled a new venue and theme.

Polly Blackburn and Ruby Abrose at the 2017 Midnight Walk. Picture: NIGE BROWN - Credit: Archant

For the first time ever, fundraisers pounding the streets on May 12 will begin and end the walk at Trinity Park, stopping by at the hospice in Foxhall Road along the way.

Participants are being encouraged to embrace the new neon and sparkle theme by adding a sprinkle of glitter to face paint and costumes.

How do hospice bosses feel about tonight?

This year, the walk has a new venue - Trinity Park. Picture: NIGE BROWN - Credit: Archant

Events and challenges fundraiser Becky Jedrzejewski said: “We are always amazed at the support the Midnight Walk receives.

“To thank people for their continued support of the event and of the hospice, we promise a fantastic night full of reflection, entertainment and fun.

“The supporters have really embraced the updated neon and sparkle theme and we can’t wait to see everyone all dressed up to support the work we do in the local community to help those living with a progressive or terminal illness.”

Am I too late to take part?

Tickets to the event can no longer be purchased online but some will be available on the night for those still wanting to take part.