RESIDENTS in Okehampton and the surrounding area are being invited to take part in the town's first Starlight Walk, to raise money for Cancer Research.

The night-time walk is a six mile route from Okehampton Rugby Club to Klondyke and onto Rough Tor and back, taking place on Friday October 8.

It is being organised by the 'Starlight Ladies of Okehampton', who are encouraging everyone to come in fancy dress or bright colours. 

For the past three years Okehampton has run a daytime moor walk for cancer but the organisers decided to do something a bit different this time.

As well as enjoying a starlit walk, the rugby club will be hosting multi sports for children from 6.30pm onwards and there will be live music, refreshments available and the bar will be open for the evening.

One of the Starlight ladies Lisa Blowey is encouraging everyone to take part.

Lisa has had personal experience of cancer and thinks Cancer Research UK is a gre­at cause. 

She said: 'At the age of 37 I was diagnosed with breast cancer but thanks to the treatment and care I received I have now been clear for four years.

'Some are not so lucky, that's why I truly believe the ongoing work Cancer Research does into new drugs and treatments is vital.

'It is an unfortunate fact that most people will be touched by cancer some time though their lives and that's why fund raising events like the Starlight moorwalk are vital to raise funds.'

Registration is £10 per adult and children under 12 can accompany mum or dad free of charge. Everyone that completes the walk will be presented with a medal. 

A special element to the night will be the lighting of 'Candles of Hope' to remember or celebrate the life of a loved one touched by cancer

A candle of hope is simply a bag that contains sand and a glowing candle to light up your message.

Many people write the names of loved ones on their bag while others add special messages, pictures or decoration in memory of someone they have lost, or in celebration of someone who is surviving cancer.

The candles will be displayed around the rugby club field and will welcome back all the walkers.

Bags are available for collection in Okehampton at Gillians Hairdressers, Quinns Hairdressers, Slimming World, Bob Gee & Co and Farmer Luxtons and the organisers are asking for a £2 donation per bag. 

They are asking people to bring them to the rugby club by 6pm on the night for display.

Area manager for Cancer Research UK, Sylvia Arlett, said: 'We are delighted with the response we have had so far.  

'We are hoping that there are still a lot more people out there who will help us raise money to fight  cancer whilst having an enjoyable time, so please pick up the phone.'

Call 01395-282705 or email [email protected]">[email protected]  for an application form or download an application at http://www.moorwalk.org.uk">www.moorwalk.org.uk