PICTURE GALLERY: Record turnout for Starlight Stroll along Eastbourne seafront

More than 1,000 people took part in the biggest ever Starlight Stroll for St Wilfrid's Hospice last Saturday night.
Starlight Stroll on Eastbourne seafront in aid of St Wilfrid's Hospice SUS-180919-150824001Starlight Stroll on Eastbourne seafront in aid of St Wilfrid's Hospice SUS-180919-150824001
Starlight Stroll on Eastbourne seafront in aid of St Wilfrid's Hospice SUS-180919-150824001

The Redoubt was buzzing as people signed in, ready for the 6.45pm start. Participants walked either a four or six mile route along Eastbourne’s seafront to the halfway point, the Italian Gardens at Holywell.

At the Italian Gardens, participants came together to lay decorated and dedicated lanterns to create a glowing garden of memories. People took a moment to reflect on their loved ones and to share their feelings with others before heading back to the Redoubt to collect their medals.

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On their return, there was an opportunity for participants to enjoy some free stargazing courtesy of the Eastbourne Astronomical Society – those who wanted were able to look at the moon, Saturn and Mars through telescopes provided.

Event organiser Beth Hillier, from the fundraising team at the hospice, said, ‘Starlight Stroll is always a special night, but this year was something else.

“It was incredible to see such a huge number of people in the community supporting the event and raising money for the hospice. Thank you so much to everyone who attended the walk, as well as to the 100 plus volunteers who gave up their time to help with its success.

“We can’t wait to find out how much money was raised and it would be amazing if it was a six digit sum!”

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Organisers thanked the Redoubt Fortress for the use of the building, Switchplane for sponsoring the event, Eastbourne Astronomical Society for providing the stargazing and Tesco, Morrisons, Hobbycraft, The Gym, York House Hotel and Bliss Spa for donating essential items.

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