A STUDENT is hoping to encourage other young men like himself to take part in Bolton Hospice’s eighth annual Midnight Memories walk.

Cameron Macdonald, aged 21, will make the eight-mile walk for the first time on Saturday, June 21.

Mr Macdonald, who studies business management at Salford University, first got involved in the event five years ago as a behind-the-scenes volunteer.

The Midnight Memories walk was originally a women-only event, until it was decided in 2012 that men could also get involved.

But with the number of men still under represented, according to Bolton Hospice, Mr Macdonald is hoping many more will come forward.

Mr Macdonald, of Ivy Bank Road, Astley Bridge, said: “I am trying to increase awareness and get more men to do it. It’s very important to me to show other guys my age that they can do this as well.

“You don’t have to be out getting blind drunk on a Saturday night — you could be doing something fun and enjoyable like this and help raise money for a great cause at the same time.

“Bolton Hospice offers an incredible service — it’s second to none.”

As part of his voluntary responsibilities, Mr Macdonald has presented medals to contestants in previous years.

He said: “I’m a little bit nervous, especially because there’s a lot more women doing it than men, but I’m really looking forward to it.

“This event always has a special impact on participants. Even when it’s raining, everyone has a beaming smile on their faces.”

Mario Passarello, events manager at Bolton Hospice, said: “We are keen to have more males joining us on the Midnight Memories Walk. We opened the walk to include men after they expressed their disappointment of being excluded.

“Please now show your support and step forward and be counted. You can help us to make this event a huge success for all the patients at Bolton Hospice, so come on men — show us you care.”

To register for the walk, visit www.boltonhospice.org.uk or call 01204 663055.