Big-hearted rugby fans are being challenged to complete a 10-mile sponsored walk next month (FEBRUARY), to help raise vital funds for Birmingham St Mary’s Hospice.
The charity’s ‘Rugby Ramble’ will see hundreds of participants walk 10 miles from the Hospice to Birmingham Moseley Rugby Club, where they will be able to watch the Six Nations England Vs Wales match with local players.
Rugby enthusiasts, avid walkers and even dogs are welcome to take on the trek, which is a scenic walk through south Birmingham’s parks and canals.
It takes place on Saturday 23 February and ramblers will be treated to a free refreshing pint and heart-warming pie ‘n’ chips once they arrive at the rugby club.
Last year, 248 walkers took on the sold out Rugby Ramble, raising over £25,000 for the Hospice. All funds raised will go towards Birmingham St Mary’s, which provides care and support to local people and their loved ones who are living with life-limiting illness.
Laura Nash, events manager at Birmingham St Mary’s Hospice, said: “Whether you’re cheering on England, supporting Wales or just coming along for the walk and pie, Rugby Ramble is a popular event that everyone can get involved in. It’s a really fun way to experience the excitement of this highly-anticipated Six Nations match, whilst raising much-needed funds to support local families who are living with life-limiting illness.”
This year, Birmingham St Mary’s Hospice will be celebrating 40 years of care across Birmingham and Sandwell. When the Hospice first opened in 1979, it provided care at its ward only and had a maximum bed capacity of 25. Four decades later and the Hospice is supporting over 400 people every day, providing care in people’s homes, in the community, at its Day Hospice facility and at the Hospice’s Inpatient Unit.
It costs £8 million a year to run the Hospice’s crucial services, over 60 per cent of which must come from generous voluntary donations.
Laura added: “Ever since we launched in 1979, all of services have been free of charge to the individuals, family members, carers, and loved ones who have needed to use them. Events like Rugby Ramble are vital in helping us to continue to provide our expert care when people need it most – not just today but for future generations to come.”
Rugby Ramble starts at 11am. Tickets cost £15 per person or £12.50 each when booked in groups of four or more. For more information or to sign up, visit here.
