On Saturday 19th September, the streets of Salisbury shone with sparkles and celebration as hundreds of walkers gathered at Five Rivers Leisure Centre for Salisbury Hospice Charity’s annual Midnight Walk – raising over £25,000 to support local people and their families.
Dressed in glittery wings, illuminated flower crowns, and even a flamingo costume, the walkers came together in solidarity with the hospice. Choosing from either a 6 or 10-mile route, each person walked with pride and determination to thank the hospice for the compassionate care it provides. Many people walked in memory of loved ones, others in appreciation for ongoing palliative or bereavement support.
Following an opening address by Nikki Spicer, Chair of Trustees, who thanked the walkers for being such a vital part of the hospice community, Clubbercise instructor Penny Peers led everyone in a vibrant, energetic warm-up. Music provided by DJ Kev from Radio Odstock kept spirits high as the walkers assembled at the iconic start line, featuring a colour-changing LED arch created by Ozweld International.
Courtesy Donald Capewell Photography
This year’s Midnight Walk came with a few surprises for walkers, who were treated to a variety of Memory Stations new for the 2026 event. From Silent Disco headsets, to beautiful selfie stations, to a ‘Hug in a Mug’ hot chocolate at the hospice itself, there were plenty of opportunities to make Midnight Walk 2026 a night to remember.
Beyond the celebratory atmosphere, the walk was complete with poignant moments for reflection. Walkers were invited to place their loved ones at the heart of the event; to share memories and photos in the walk’s Memory Cinema, write messages on the much-loved Memory Wall, and pause for reflection at Salisbury Cathedral, placing a candle on the west doorsteps in memory of friends and family.
Natalie Pester, Events and Engagement Executive at Salisbury Hospice Charity, said: “Seeing so many people come together for this year’s Midnight Walk has been truly fantastic. There was such a wonderful atmosphere throughout the evening, and it was lovely to see people connecting, sharing stories and walking in support of the hospice. Events like this really show the strength of our community, and we are incredibly grateful to everyone who took part, volunteered and supported the Midnight Walk.”
Courtesy Donald Capewell Photography
A heartfelt thank you goes out to the incredible team of volunteers who made the event possible – from registration, photography and route marshalling to cheering on participants and giving out goodies at the finish line. Special appreciation goes to headline sponsor Bluebird Care, whose generous support made the evening soar.
We would also like to thank all of our event partners and suppliers, including Elite Sound & Light, Dorset Generators, Core Exhibitions, Salisbury City Council, Tesco Extra Salisbury, Dotcombe Global Logistics, ISON Security, Radio Odstock, Penny Peers, Armed Forces & Veterans Field Kitchen, The Old Mill Pub, Wessex Event Support Team, Signs in Motion, Wessex 4X4, Five Rivers Leisure Centre, CCW Event Medics, Wiltshire Farm Foods, Bidfood and other businesses who kindly donated gifts for the raffle and kindly gave their time to support Midnight Walk. Their support behind the scenes and on the night was invaluable.
Courtesy Andrea Penna Photography
Funds raised from this year’s Midnight Walk will go directly towards helping Salisbury Hospice continue providing care and comfort to patients with life-limiting illnesses and their families.
