Liverpool was bathed in a vibrant green glow on Friday 7 February as over 1,400 enthusiastic participants joined the Glow Green Night Walk to support Clatterbridge Cancer Charity. Armed with glow sticks and dressed in green T-shirts, wigs, leg warmers, hats, and headbands, the fundraisers embarked on an 8km journey through the city, passing some of Liverpool’s most iconic landmarks, all illuminated in green for the occasion.
The event has already raised an impressive £237,000, with more donations expected in the coming weeks. Mark Parkinson, Events Manager at Clatterbridge Cancer Charity, expressed his gratitude: “We’d like to thank everyone who Glowed Green for Clatterbridge Cancer Charity. It was our biggest Glow Green event yet, and that’s all because of the people who took part. It was heart-warming to see everyone having great fun while raising much-needed funds for people with cancer in our region.”
The walk began at the historic waterfront, winding through the Royal Albert Dock, past the M&S Bank Arena, the Wheel of Liverpool, and Liverpool One. Participants also passed both historic cathedrals, the Philharmonic and Everyman theatres, The University of Liverpool, and The Clatterbridge Cancer Centre – Liverpool, where patients waved from windows and the Make Noise choir performed outside.
The route continued past the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, St George’s Hall, St John’s Beacon, the Town Hall, The Ivy restaurant, and the Royal Liver Buildings, before concluding back at the Museum of Liverpool. This annual event, held to mark World Cancer Day on February 4th, offers a chance for walkers to enjoy themselves while raising vital funds to support those affected by cancer.
TV presenter and Coronation Street star Kym Marsh officially started the event, leading the countdown on stage outside the Museum of Liverpool. Kym, who lost her father David to cancer last year, walked in his honor alongside her family. “My dad was looked after by Clatterbridge, and he was very keen for us to say thank you and tell everybody how brilliant they are,” Kym shared. “Every single person takes part for a reason, whether it’s because they’ve had cancer or because someone they know has had cancer. My dad wanted us to support them, and support Clatterbridge, and we will continue to do that.”
Throughout the night, participants were entertained by performances from Victoria Jones, Liverpool Indie Choir, the Rock Choir, SingMe Merseyside, Make Noise, AJK Entertainment, and D’Ukes of Hazzard. The event was hosted by Ian Gibbons and featured acts like Penny Farthing Circus Acts, the Techno-Spartans, and The Glitter Hub.
Amid the festivities, there were moments of reflection and tribute to loved ones lost to cancer, those currently battling the disease, and the dedicated Clatterbridge staff. The steps of the Metropolitan Cathedral were adorned with lanterns decorated by walkers, creating a sea of light and hope.
Sponsored by Arriva, the event provided free bus travel for participants and water bottles at the finish line. Humdinger also contributed sweet treats for everyone who took part.
Landmarks across Liverpool and the wider region, including the University of Liverpool’s Active Learning Laboratory, Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral, St George’s Hall, and the Royal Liver Buildings, were lit green in solidarity.
Thank you to everyone who made this year’s Glow Green Night Walk a glowing success. We look forward to seeing you all next year, but for now, take a look at the image gallery below!
