St Raphael’s Hospice hosted its third annual Lavender Memory Walk, which how now raised a total of £33,000 for the hospice since its launch.
Mayfield Lavender Farm in Surrey welcomed 149 people for a walk in memory of their lost loved ones on June 25.
The participants trekked along the six-mile route through the picturesque lavender fields and Oaks Park.
So far, this year’s event has raised over £6,200, meaning that more than £33,000 in donations have been raised since the Memory Walk was first launched.
St Raphael’s Hospice offers palliative and end-of-life care for the people in Merton and Sutton providing home-based and in-patient care, wellbeing services and bereavement support.
The Sollis and Dunmall family signed up to the Lavender Walk in memory of their mum and nan, Joyce Sollis.
Barbara, despite having arthritis in her hip, wished to honour her mum and completed the six-mile trek hand in hand with her family.
After reaching the finish line, the Sollis and Dunmall family hosted a party in celebration of their mum and nan.
Sharon Dunmall, a participant of this year’s event, said: “St Raphael’s Lavender Walk is more than a walk, it’s a special time set aside to reflect and celebrate those we love and miss dearly.
“It is such a beautiful day out in Surrey’s woodlands and lavender fields.
“It is great to give back to St Raphael’s where we can, as they’ve been there for all of us for over 35 years.”
Lorna Maye, owner of Mayfield Lavender Farm, said: “The great friendship we’ve developed with St Raphael’s over the last few years.
“We are delighted to support their fundraising efforts, especially during a time where fundraising has been in crisis.
“The sponsored walk marries the Hospice and our farm seamlessly, as two places that are very dear to a great deal of people.
“I hope that we will be able to continue to support St Raphael’s and welcome their supporters over many years to come.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here