Hornets bosses launch Starlight Walk (From Watford Observer)

Watford bosses launch the Peace Hospice Starlight Walk

9:29am Wednesday 4th March 2009 in Peace Hospice

Watford FC manager Brendan Rodgers paid his first visit to the Peace Hospice today, describing staff as “special people” before launching this year's Starlight Walk.

The Hornets boss was joined by the club's new chief executive Julian Winter as he chatted to patients at the hospice before officially launching the walk.

This summer's Starlight Walk will be the third time Watford's women have walked through the town's midnight streets to show their support for the hospice.

Last year, 1,200 people walked the 13-mile course in bright pink t-shirts, raising more than £226,000 for the hospice.

However, this year's walk promises to be even bigger and better, with Watford FC already agreeing to sponsor a new, different coloured, shirt.

Organisers are confident 1,500 people will take part this year.

Mr Rodgers, who took over as Watford manager in November, described his visit as “touching”.

“I've only been here a few months but one of the things that is very apparent is that Watford as a club is very close to the community and I understand why the Peace Hospice is very very important to the club.

“Coming here today is my way of supporting the Peace Hospice.”

The Northern Irishman added: “I've always said life is more important than football and us, as managers and players at the club, have an obligation to support people who are in a difficult situation.

“It is our duty to support them.”

After meeting patients and staff, the club's new chief executive, Julian Winter, said the Hornets had wanted “to do a little bit extra” this year.

“This year we wanted to try and get involved in the walk because last year's affect was massive.

“We [the club] have to do these things, rather than just talk about them, so it was a bit more of a commitment to actually sponsor it this year.”

Meanwhile, Linda Topping, who chairs the organising committee, says she hopes this year will be better than ever.

Linda, who came up with the concept of the Starlight Walk, said: “The other two have been very successful, they have been above and beyond our dreams, and I think this year will be as well.”

She added it did not matter whether walkers raised “£1, £2 or £200”.

“It is local people, taking part in a local walk, raising money for a local charity that is backed by local businesses. It is fantastic.”

Asked what she was hoping for this year's event, Linda added: “Just a warm evening. We don't want it too hot, or to rain and we just want the same excitement and fun as last year.

“The atmosphere last year was just amazing.”

To register for the walk, visit www.starlightwalk.org.uk or contact the Peace Hospice's fundraising team on 01923 330340. Walkers must be aged 13 or above to take part in the event.

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