Hundreds of women and men strutted their stuff through Wanstead on Friday 10 May to raise money for our hopsice.

In total 300 supporters of the charity, painted the streets pink in this year’s Sparkle Walk – a 10km route from Christchurch Green, Wanstead to The Cuckfield Pub, Wanstead.

The route encompassed beautiful parts of Epping Forest, South Woodford and Wanstead, with the halfway Sparkle Station on the grounds of Haven House. Walkers really embraced the Sparkle theme with pink wigs, feather boas, tutus and glitter face paint – even the four-legged participants got into the Sparkle spirit.

Seeing the walkers off were reality TV stars Billie and Greg Shepherd. The couple, who have recently become ambassadors for the hospice, got involved with the festivities with glitter face paint. Greg also dressed up for the occasion in a wedding dress – paying tribute to the couple’s recent wedding day.

Billie said: We had the most wonderful evening. Haven House is an amazing charity and we feel so proud to be part of it.

Also taking part were several mums whose children are cared for by the hospice. Jaycee Wharfe, whose son Finnley is receiving support from the hospice, completed the walk with 12 of her friends and family.

She said: The hospice support for our family has been tremendous. As well as caring for Finnley, they are so supportive to me. This is the second time I’ve taken part in the Sparkle Walk and it’s my way of showing my gratitude to Haven House. I can’t thank them enough. We had a great time and we are all ready to sign up next year.

Walkers took to social media following the evening praising the event.  

Sam Duff said: “Amazing night, well done to all the staff and volunteers too.”

Natasha Little added: “Brilliant night, so well organised, amazing atmosphere.”

Dona on Instagram added: “Giving your time to help children in need is gifting your time to yourself. #thesparklewalk #superstarsparkles. Amazing charity @havenhousech.”

It is anticipated that over £29,000 has been raised for Haven House, which provides vital support in the local community to seriously ill children and their families facing the unimaginable.

Katie Tyler, Haven House Events Fundraising Manager, was delighted with the success of the night.

She said: “What an unbelievable night. Thank you so much to everyone who came along and supported Haven House. The walkers all had big smiles on their faces, so we know they had a great night and they’ve helped raise an amazing amount of money which makes such a difference to Haven House – thank you everyone.

Haven House would like to thank Hetheringtons in South Woodford for sponsoring the event, The Cuckfield Pub and all the fantastic volunteers who helped on the evening.