It was ready, set, glow for a Saddlers star at the weekend as he joined dedicated fundraisers for the launch of a bright idea to help save lifeline services for children and families across the Black Country.

 

Walsall FC defender Mat Sadler and his family were among supporters strolling in their most colourful neon outfits in the first-ever Acorns Glow Walk. 

 

Running until Saturday 31 October, the virtual spectacular is being held to raise vital funds for the £2million Save Acorns Black Country Hospice Appeal.

 

Mat said: “My family and I had such fun taking part in Acorns Glow Walk and it was great to know we were among lots of other supporters glowing the distance to help raise money for the Save Acorns Black Country Appeal.

 

“I’ve met some of the amazing children and families this hospice supports, and I’ve seen what a real lifeline it is. There’s still plenty of time to join Acorns Glow Walk, sign up now and help save this important local service.”

 

Entry to Acorns Glow Walk is free, with participants able to choose from 2km, 5km and 10km distances. Entrants who really glow for it and raise over £50 will also receive glow goodies, Glow Walk medal and certificate.

 

Zoe Baggott, Senior Manager for Events at Acorns, said: “Huge thanks to Mat and his family and all of the other amazing supporters who joined us for the launch weekend of Acorns Glow Walk. It was lovely to see so many photos online of you all shining brightly for the Save Acorns Black Country Hospice Appeal. 

 

“If you haven’t signed up for Acorns Glow Walk, it’s not too late! Every penny you raise will directly fund the vital children’s hospice care that more than 200 children and their families across the Black Country rely on.”

 

Acorns has been at the forefront in the battle against coronavirus, providing children’s hospice care to the most vulnerable families as well as supporting the NHS.

 

The charity’s hospice in the Black Country has been at the heart of the Acorns response to the pandemic, welcoming children from intensive care to help local hospitals make use of the additional bed capacity.

 

The Save Acorns Black Country Hospice Appeal was launched by Acorns in July 2019 following pledges of increased NHS funding that would ensure the under-threat hospice is adequately funded from 2023/24 onwards.

 

To sign up for Acorns Glow Walk, visit www.acorns.org.uk/glow-walk