Photo Credit: Anna Whitwam, Only 1 Design

By KLTV Newsdesk –

More than 800 supporters raise vital funds for local hospice charity

More than 800 people transformed the streets of Huddersfield into a sea of neon pink on Saturday evening as they took part in The Kirkwood’s annual Starlight Walk.

Kindly supported by official event partner Syngenta, the charity’s flagship fundraising event began at the Accu Stadium, with supporters of all ages, including plenty of four-legged companions, taking on three, six or 10-mile routes.

The event is expected to raise tens of thousands of pounds to help The Kirkwood continue providing specialist care and support for people living with life-limiting illnesses across Kirklees, as well as vital support for their families.

Walking in memory of loved ones

For many participants, the walk was an opportunity to honour the memory of someone close while giving back to the charity that had supported them.

Emma Wilson, from Mirfield, was taking part in the Starlight Walk for the first time in memory of her mum, Helen Scargill.

“We’re taking part to raise money for a charity that means so much to our family,” Emma said.

“My mum, Helen Scargill, was cared for by The Kirkwood during the final days of her life before she sadly passed away in November 2025.

“The care she received was absolutely incredible. Taking part tonight is our way of saying thank you while helping to ensure other families can receive that same compassion and support.”

“Our team is called ‘Helen’s Odd Sock Clan’, and it’s a really personal tribute to Mum.

“She was famous in our family for wearing odd socks because she never worried about pairing them up, so we decided to make that part of tonight!”

Sandra Bamford, from Highburton, was completing her fourth Starlight Walk after the charity cared for her husband.

“This is our fourth Starlight Walk, and every year it means a little bit more to us,” Sandra said.

“We originally took part because we wanted to support The Kirkwood, but two years ago, the charity became a huge part of our own lives when my husband was admitted to the hospice.

“Since then, walking has become our way of remembering him.”

“When you’ve experienced The Kirkwood first-hand, you realise just how special it is. It’s about the warmth, compassion and respect that every member of staff shows.

“They make an unbearable situation feel just a little easier, and that’s an incredible gift to give to a family.”

Keith Swiffen, from Lowerhouses, completed the 10-mile route alongside his family in memory of his father, Anthony.

“The Kirkwood cared for him throughout his illness, and the support they gave our family was outstanding,” Keith said.

“When my dad passed away, the team were there holding his hand, brushing his hair, and making sure he was never alone right until the very end.

“We’ve already raised around £720, and it’s a great feeling knowing that every donation will help The Kirkwood continue supporting local families when they need it most.”

Entertainment and emotion before the walk

Despite a light drizzle, the atmosphere at the Accu Stadium remained upbeat as walkers gathered ahead of the 10 pm start.

The evening featured performances from the Huddersfield Giants Pro Squad, Legacy Steel Band and singing duo Across the Moone, while Crazy Amigos led a lively Zumba warm-up just before participants set off.

As the clock struck 10 pm, 32 confetti cannons filled the night sky with neon ticker tape, marking the start of the walk as hundreds of participants, many wearing tutus and flashing accessories, made their way through Huddersfield’s streets.

Many walkers wore handmade tributes on their T-shirts, creating a moving celebration of life, remembrance and community.

Community support praised

The event was also the first Starlight Walk for The Kirkwood’s new Head of Fundraising & Development, Anya Friis, who praised the support shown by the local community.

“I am blown away by the passion and generosity of the Kirklees community. To see over 800 people showing up in their neon pink T-shirts is a moment I will never forget. My first Starlight Walk shows just how deeply loved The Kirkwood is here in Kirklees.

“I want to say thank you to our volunteers and members of staff, who have put so much hard work into making tonight a success. But most importantly, I want to thank every single walker for supporting our charity and helping to make this such an incredible evening.”

Looking ahead to 2027

The Kirkwood thanked official event partner Syngenta, venue host the Accu Stadium, its volunteers, staff and the many local businesses, performers and community groups whose support helped make the event possible.

With another successful Starlight Walk complete, the charity has already opened registrations for the 2027 event.

Anyone wishing to take part next year and support The Kirkwood can now register via the charity’s website.