Struggling Willen Hospice launches 'All New Moo' event due to coronavirus crisis

The event has been launched to replace the popular Midnight Moo walk and Moo Night Run, which can no longer take place in their usual format due to the social distancing restrictions imposed by coronavirus.

The All New Moo is open to everyone, including families, and invites people to walk, run or even scoot a route of their choice from their own homes.

Participants can take on five or 10 miles and are asked to gather sponsorship.

The money will make a huge difference to the hospice, which is facing a "staggering" loss in fundraising income due to the cancellation of their usual summer events and activities, say bosses.

The team behind the new event will be recreating the unique atmosphere of the Midnight Moo by hosting a Zoom party between 8am and 6pm on the day.

Participants can log on and join in as they set off on their route, during it, and on their return.

A cheer point will be set up in front of the Hospice gardens on Willen Lake, and everyone who walks past will receive a special cheer and some surprises from the charity’s fundraising team.

There will also be an opportunity to post a message on the special ‘memory wall’ that will be outside the hospice grounds.

Everyone who joins in will be asked to link to Strava so that their miles can be added to a grand Moo total.

Peta Wilkinson, Willen Hospice chief executive said: “We’re so excited to be unveiling plans for our All New Moo. The coronavirus has had a huge negative impact on us this year, and we were so disappointed when we realised we couldn’t offer our usual events for the foreseeable future. We know many look forward to our Midnight Moo every year, so I’m so glad that we now have an alternative for them to take part in.

“The care we provide for local people simply must continue. Events like the Moo will help us raise money to continue to deliver our care. I hope lots of families and friends will join us, albeit remotely, this year.”

The Moo is sponsored by Specsavers MK and their director Steve Moore said: “We love supporting Willen Hospice through the Moo. We know how much work goes into planning such an event and we’re delighted that a Moo event can still happen in this revised format.

“The hospice does an amazing job of supporting so many local patients and their families who are going through the hardest time of their lives. The coronavirus has left a massive gap in their income this year, and I urge people to get on their feet and show their support by taking part in the All New Moo 2020.”

Entry to the All New Moo is £20 for adults (includes vest) and £8 for children under 14 (includes colour-in bib and goodies). Book online now here