OVER 80 people took part in a night-time charity walk in Clevedon last weekend (Saturday, October 7).

The scenic Moonlight Memory Walk, which was organised by the Children's Hospice South West (CHSW), gave locals the chance to talk about and share their memories of those they have lost.

Attendees wrote down their memories of loved ones in various places along the 4k walk, which included Clevedon seafront and the pier. These featured in a memory tree at the half-way point at the end of Clevedon Pier, accompanied by a local acoustic singer.

Beforehand, participants were able to wear hand-written dedications to loved ones and joined a special memory ceremony, where they enjoyed music from local choir, Partsong.

North Somerset Times: People wrote down their memories of their loved ones.People wrote down their memories of their loved ones. (Image: Children’s Hospice South West)

Attendees also heard Clare Toller's story. Clare lost her son, Grayson, when he was just 10 weeks old. Grayson was supported by the hospice.

Clare said: “We have some fantastic memories at Charlton Farm that will last a lifetime and we could not have achieved those if we had been anywhere else.

"I class myself as being very privileged to have been able to go to the most magical and special place.”

Tamara Downes, head of fundraising for CHSW, said: “We were overwhelmed with the response we had for our first Moonlight Memory Walk.

"It was a truly memorable night for our bereaved families, some of our care team staff and supporters who were remembering their loved ones.

"We can’t wait to make it bigger and better next year and hope everyone will get involved and be part of this developing event.”

The North Somerset branch of the hospice can be found at Charlton Farm in Wraxall. 

Staff provide free support to children with life limiting illnesses and their families, including respite, palliative care, end of life care and bereavement support.

The hospice also offers resilience stays and support in families' own homes since the pandemic.

The CHSW website reads: "We offer a home from home where children and young people with life-limiting conditions and their families can take a short break away from home to re-charge their batteries in a homely, warm and welcoming environment.

"Providing a much-needed break from the ongoing strains of caring for their children at home, juggling professional and medical appointments as well as maintaining family life and employment."