Willen Hospice is encouraging businesses across Milton Keynes to enter teams into this year’s Midnight Moo as the charity prepares for the return of one of the city’s largest fundraising events.

The annual Midnight Moo charity walk will take place on Friday 26 June, with participants setting off from Middleton Hall at centre:mk from 10pm for either a five- or 10-mile route through the city.

Sponsored by Specsavers MK, the event has become a major fixture in the Milton Keynes fundraising calendar, attracting community groups, families and increasingly corporate teams looking to support local causes while promoting staff wellbeing and team engagement.

Organisers say this year’s event will again combine fundraising with a social atmosphere, with live entertainment, music and activities planned before walkers set off overnight across Milton Keynes.

Willen Hospice provides free specialist care and support for people affected by life-limiting illness across the region. The charity says it costs £11 million a year to operate its services, with only 12.7% funded through the NHS.

Participants are encouraged to raise sponsorship alongside their entry fees, with businesses expected to play an important role in helping the hospice meet its annual fundraising target.

For many entrants, the event also has a personal connection. Paul Wightman took part in last year’s Midnight Moo alongside his two sons and 14 other team members in memory of his late wife, Ange.

“Ange passed away in November 2024 aged just 51,” Paul said. “I can’t thank Willen Hospice enough for what they did. It wasn’t just about the exceptional care that my wife received – it was also the support and the caring nature they had for the rest of the family. I try to give back as much as I can.

“While a lot of the night is about the memories of my wife, it’s also about looking after the living as well. Focusing on positive things like walking, getting out and keeping fit. Some people have really trained to do this, because walking 10 miles is quite a big achievement. I’m very proud of them.”

Alongside walkers, the hospice is also recruiting volunteers to support the event on the night.

More information about entering a team or volunteering is available through the Willen Hospice website.