Starlight Walk to bring hope to bereaved families at Ashton Court

Tickets are now available for Starlight Walk at Ashton Court Estate, Bristol on Saturday 23 November, in aid of Sands, the UK’s leading pregnancy and baby loss charity.

Starlight Walk follows a 5km route through the beautiful Ashton Court Estate and is an opportunity for anyone affected by pregnancy or baby loss, however recently or longer ago, to remember their much-loved babies by walking alongside other bereaved parents and families.

Parents taking part in Starlight Walk have spoken about why they are doing this and what it means to them.

Bereaved mum, Emily said: “I’m taking part in Sands Starlight Walk as I want to help those affected by the loss of a baby to find the light in the dark.

“My daughter, May, was stillborn on 24 July 2020 at 41 + 1 weeks weighing 7lbs. She was the most beautiful thing I had ever seen, and I instantly fell deeply in love. The pain I felt that day was indescribable, and still to this day it has not left me. I have had to learn to live alongside my grief. I want to do anything I can to help prevent others feeling this pain, and Sands charity helps do exactly that.”

Registration on the day opens from 3pm in Arts Mansion, Ashton Court Estate, BS41 9JN. The 5k walk begins at 4pm and will take you from Arts Mansion, into Ashton Court Estate and back to Arts Mansion where you’ll receive your Starlight Walk medal and refreshments.

Tickets are £17.00 for adults, £12.00 for children (under 16) and free for children under 3 and are now available to purchase online.

Everyone that registers will receive a paper lantern and LED candle to carry on the walk, a walking memory card to wear with pride, a Starlight Walk medal once they have crossed the finish line and a well-earned tea or coffee and cake in reception with an opportunity to add to our wall of remembrance.

Sands’ Events Fundraising Manager, Florence Moffat said: “For those that are unable to attend the event in Bristol on 23 November, there is also a Virtual Starlight Walk taking place which can be completed anywhere in the UK on 7 December, on your own or with a loved one. Sign up for free and stroll through the countryside, march through the town or simply let your feet lead the way as you walk either 5km or 10km for Sands. Like starlight itself, the love for our babies is endless, and together we will walk through the darkness and find the light.”

Every day 13 babies die before, during or shortly after birth. Sands works to understand where and why babies die and why some women and babies are more at risk than others.

Sands is determined to save every life it can and ensure the right care and support is there for every bereaved family, whenever and wherever they need it.

For further information on Sands’ Starlight Walk or Starlight Walk at Home visit: fundraising.sands.org.uk/starlight-walk