Midnight Walk boys’ club gears up for its annual outing

AN EXCLUSIVE Pannal boys’ club will take to the streets of Harrogate this summer for its annual charity fundraiser.

Father and son David and Harry Binder will complete the Midnight Walk together on Saturday June 30 for the sixth year running.

It’s a special date on the Binder boys’ calendar as the pair remember Harry’s aunt, who was cared for by Saint Michael’s in the last days of her life, and celebrate the memory of Harry’s granddad, who died before the 16-year-old was even born.

David, 56, owner of Fountain House Construction, said:

“Our commitment to the Midnight Walk began in 2007 after Harry said he’d like to take part in memory of his granddad, who died of cancer in 1988. My father-in-law was a remarkable man, and Harry’s dedication to a man he sadly never got to meet is testament to his legacy”.

David, who survived a horrific car crash in 1998 which saw him break 31 bones, said:

“We’ve been through a lot as a family in recent years and the Midnight Walk gives Harry and I a chance to bond; we walk, we talk, and it’s something I look forward to as a father”.

The duo have raised more than £1,000 for Saint Michael’s, all of which has enabled the charity to continue to provide its specialist services to more than 2,400 people each year.

Tony Collins, chief executive of Saint Michael’s, said:

“I think the Binders sum up the reason why the Midnight Walk is so special to our community. It’s about relationships, past and present, and is a chance for people to come together to how their support for family, friends and the wider community who have been touched by terminal illness and bereavement. This support, which has translated into more than £500,000 for Saint Michael’s since 2007, is something that everyone involved should be very proud of”.

The 6.5mile sponsored walk will start and finish at the Yorkshire Event Centre on the Great Yorkshire Showground, Wetherby Road, and follow a well lit, fully marshalled circular route around Harrogate town centre.

For the fifth year running the event is sponsored by Engage Mutual. The event is also being supported by two media partners, Harrogate Advertiser and 97.2 Stray FM.

Places are limited and participants must pre-register before Friday June 15. Registration costs just £12 for adults, and £6 for under 16s.

Register online today or call Saint Michael’s on  (01423) 879 687.