Staying up until after midnight may not seem like too much of an ask on a Friday evening, but if you’re a breakfast radio broadcaster it’s definitely more of a challenge.
Broadcaster Phil Trow, who presents the breakfast show on BBC Radio Manchester, will be putting his bodyclock to the test once again this year as he hosts and takes part in the Manchester Midnight Walk on 24th June in aid of St Ann’s Hospice.
He explained: “I did the Manchester Midnight Walk for the first time last year and thought that it would be easy, but it’s definitely a test of stamina when you’ve been up since 4.30am presenting and then have to walk around the city centre in the early hours.
“But, to be honest, the atmosphere is great and that certainly keeps the adrenaline pumping. Oh, and more than a couple of coffees help too! It’s all in aid of such a great cause though, and that’s what keeps those legs moving – it’s great knowing that so many people are gathered together to really make a difference to local hospice patients.”
This year’s walkers will be celebrating the 10th birthday of the event, which has become a staple on the city’s fundraising calendar.
Rachel McMillan, acting chief executive of St Ann’s Hospice, said: “We’re so pleased that Phil has agreed to join us again this year to host our event stage.
“There’s always such an amazing atmosphere before the walk and having Phil there warming everyone up with his high energy and sense of fun will really help to get the crowd ready.
“We’ll make sure he has time to fit in an afternoon nap before he comes along, as we’re aware that it’ll be a very long day for him. A huge thank you to him, and also to all of the other people from across Greater Manchester who have been signing up to take part, on behalf of the local patients we care for.”
Last year’s Midnight Walk attracted more than 2000 people who raised a massive £214,733.83 for St Ann’s.
Organisers are urging anyone interested in taking part in the special 10th birthday Midnight Walk event to join Phil and register as soon as possible.
Many fundraisers walk in memory of loved ones, with others happy to join the fun at this family event.
The walk leaves Manchester Central at midnight, with music and entertainment on the event stage hosted by Phil Trow starting at 9pm.
The 10k route covers landmarks such as Manchester Cathedral, St Ann’s Square and Spinningfields.
*Walkers must be aged 11 and over, and under 18s must be walking with an adult. Entry is £20; £15 for past walkers and £10 if aged 11 to 17. To register go to www.mmwalk.org.uk or call 0161 498 3631.
