Join the Stars Appeal’s Walk for Wards in support of Salisbury Hospital

The Stars Appeal, Salisbury Hospital’s Charity, is inviting the community to lace up their walking boots and take part in this year’s Walk for Wards.

The free annual sponsored walk around the Wilton Estate, which attracts thousands of participants every year, takes place on Sunday, July 5th.

Walkers can take part to say thank you to a ward or department at Salisbury District Hospital that has cared for them or their family, or in memory of a loved one.

Entry is free and includes lunch as well as admission to the Wilton House gardens and the adventure playground. Walkers must register in advance at www.starsappeal.org

Paediatric Emergency Medicine Consultant and Stars Appeal Ambassador Dr Gail Ng said: “Every day, I see the difference Stars Appeal funding makes to patients at Salisbury Hospital from state-of-the-art equipment such as the MRI scanner to the dedicated children’s facilities, which help make a child’s time in hospital far less frightening.

"Thoughtful touches like mobile phone charging stations and Stars Appeal Wi-Fi help families stay connected during incredibly difficult moments, while emergency clothing and toiletry packs provide much-needed comfort especially for those who arrive in hospital unexpectedly. By taking part in Walk for Wards you will be helping the Stars Appeal to continue making a real difference to the care we are able to provide at our hospital.”

There are four routes to choose from, including the family-friendly 3k or 5k walk, or the more challenging 10k or 15k, which is back by popular demand.

Money raised at Walk for Wards helps the Stars Appeal towards its goal of raising £2million this year to fund projects helping thousands of patients, their families, and staff across Salisbury Hospital.

The President of the Stars Appeal, The Earl of Pembroke, added: “Walk for Wards is a fantastic day out for all ages and a wonderful way to show your support for our hospital while raising vital funds for the Stars Appeal. I encourage as many people as possible to join us for our flagship sponsored walk and experience the extraordinary atmosphere of the day, alongside the beautiful setting of Wilton House. Bring your family and friends along too. I look forward to seeing you all on Sunday 5th July for an event not to be missed.”

Walk for Wards is held by kind permission of Lord Pembroke and Lady Pembroke, sponsored by Salisbury Reds, with support from Wilton and Salisbury Rotary Clubs who marshal the event, and many other local people and organisations.

Andrew Sherrington, Salisbury Reds general manager, said: “Stars Appeal is our official charity partner - and we’re keen to help raise as much awareness as possible for this very worthy cause. Many of our team members have close links to the charity and this is a great chance for us to support its work.

“The Walk for Wards event is a fantastic family occasion - giving local people the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful surroundings of the Wilton Estate, and to raise funds in the process. I can’t think of a better way to enjoy a Sunday this summer, than to spend it in support of Stars Appeal - and I’m looking forward to joining everyone there this July.”

Walkers are asked to sign up in advance and commit to raising at least £20 or £50 in sponsorship per person (route-dependent) for their chosen ward or department. To register for free or for more information, go to www.starsappeal.org/event/walk-for-wards/ or call 01722 429005.