Leeds rock choir brings ‘sparkle’ to charity night hike raising £21,000
The musicians gave the fundraisers a real boost
A Leeds choir helped bring a night of music and memories to a charity hike which raised more than £21,000 for Sue Ryder.
Around 40 members of Rock Choir performed at the Sue Ryder Starlight Hike in Leeds on Saturday, October 10, entertaining walkers taking on 5km and 10km routes in memory of loved ones.
The event gave participants the chance to remember those they had lost and show their appreciation for the nurses providing expert end-of-life care.
Some walkers wore fancy dress and brought their dogs along, while Rock Choir members used glowsticks to light up the evening.
The choir, led by Ainjiel-Shaolee Clark, brought together members from Horsforth, Ilkley, Keighley, Roundhay, Temple Newsam and Wakefield.
Their set included songs such as ‘Someone You Loved’, ‘I’m a Believer’ and ‘Dreams’, with walkers stopping to watch, clap and dance along as they passed.
Ainjiel said: “The walkers enjoyed our performance. Some danced as they walked past or stopped to watch and clapped as we sang.
“We were in Woodhouse Moor Park, next to the University of Leeds. It was great being in the heart of Leeds.
“We’ve worked with Sue Ryder for other events in the past. The charity means a lot to the members and it means a lot to us to support them and the great work that they do.”
Walkers also had the opportunity to place a star in memory of someone special as they made their way through the grounds of Sue Ryder Wheatfields Hospice.
Michael Tarbatt, regional fundraiser for Sue Ryder, said the choir had helped create a moment for walkers to reflect while giving them a boost during the event.
He said: “Rock Choir were amazing and created a real moment for walkers to stop and reflect, as well as giving them a real boost during the walk.
“We’re incredibly grateful for their support.”
The choir will return to support Sue Ryder at Leeds train station on Thursday, December 3, from 10am.
Members will perform Christmas songs alongside their usual repertoire while volunteers collect donations for the charity.
Rock Choir has 34 locations across Yorkshire and the North East and is welcoming new members.
There is no audition or requirement to read music, and everyone is welcome to attend a free taster session.
For more information, visit www.rockchoir.com.