A CHARITY has revealed major changes to its flagship annual fundraising event, the Midnight Walk in Weymouth.

Now called The Moonlight Walk, the Weldmar Hospicecare event will be open to men for the first time, and with an earlier start time of 10pm. Children from the age of 10 will also be welcome to take part with family members.

Weldmar’s Midnight Walk began in 2007 as a women-only event, and those who have taken part have raised hundreds of thousands of pounds for the end of life care that Weldmar provides in Dorset.

The first Moonlight Walk will start and finish at the new venue of Lodmoor Country Park on Saturday, July 18.

Abi Shirley, Weldmar’s Major Events Fundraiser, said: “The Midnight Walk has been a fixture in the calendar for many Weldmar supporters over the years.

"There have been an increasing number of calls for men to take part each year, so we thought this is the time to make that happen. There has always been a terrific atmosphere at the event, and we’re sure it will be even better now it’s open to everyone.”

Taxi firm Weyline has signed up to support the event as main sponsor.

Owner Ian Ferguson said: "We are proud to be associated with, and humbled by, the great work Weldmar does and grateful to be given the opportunity to support it.”

Registration is now open for places on the new Moonlight Walk on the Weldmar Hospicecare website with a special early bird rate on offer for anyone who wants to sign up.

All monies raised by Weldmar events such as Moonlight Walk go directly towards the end of life care that Weldmar provides, including community nursing, at the inpatient unit, day services across the county, and family support.