The popular Spooky Welly Walk at Sefton Park has been cancelled due to a severe weather forecast, with Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation appealing for support following the loss of its much-loved family fundraiser.
The annual Halloween event was due to take place in Liverpool on Saturday 24 October. However, organisers have made the difficult decision to cancel following warnings of strong winds and heavy rain.
The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for the area. Following a site inspection and advice from an independent health and safety advisor, the charity concluded that the event could not safely go ahead.
For 15 years, Spooky Welly Walk has brought families together for a day of Halloween fun while raising vital funds for people affected by lung cancer.
Last year’s event raised an impressive £83,000, and the charity had hoped to raise even more this year.
Spooky Welly Walk cancellation delivers blow to charity fundraising
The cancellation represents a significant setback for Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation, which relies on fundraising events to support its work.
Paula Chadwick, Chief Executive of Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation, said:
“We know how much families look forward to Spooky Welly Walk, and we’re so sorry to disappoint everyone who planned to join us. Our team and volunteers have spent months preparing, but the safety of everyone attending must come first.
“We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who bought tickets, asked friends and family to sponsor them, or offered their time to help. That kindness is what makes this event so special.
“Last year, Spooky Welly Walk raised £83,000 to help fund our work. Losing this year’s event is a significant blow, but the need for our support continues. People are still receiving a lung cancer diagnosis and turning to us for information, reassurance, and someone to talk to.
“Although our work reaches people across the UK, Liverpool is our home, and there’s something special about the Scouse way of coming together and looking after others.
“Local families are part of that kindness, and we’re so grateful to have you all behind us.”
Liverpool community urged to support Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation
Despite the cancellation, the charity hopes Liverpool families and supporters will continue to back its vital work.
Paula added:
“If you can make a donation, please help. Whatever you can give will help us continue to be there for people affected by lung cancer. We look forward to welcoming families back next year.”
All ticket holders are being contacted directly following the cancellation of this year’s event.
Meanwhile, Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation is encouraging anyone who can help to consider making a donation.
Those wishing to support the charity can donate here.
