A TEAM of 21 nurses calling themselves ‘the Bunionettes’ are embarking this year’s Midnight Memories Walk.

The nurses who all work in the orthopaedic ward at Royal Bolton Hospital are walking for their colleague, Bev Longworth, aged 53, who is an ‘inspiration’ to the team.

Jo Comerford said: “We have registered 21 people in support of our very lively and lovely friend and colleague Bev, who is currently undergoing treatment.

“She is an inspiration to us all and intends to complete the walk with us whilst still having treatment herself.”

The annual Midnight Memories Walk is an eight-mile loop to bring people together who have experienced loss or been affected by a life-threatening illness.

The walk is a chance to reflect — celebrate those walking and remember those who have died — and raise money for Bolton Hospice.

Ms Comerford added: “The hospital is not the same without Bev and we can’t wait until she returns and brightens up everyone’s day, staff and patients alike.

“The Bunionettes (our team name which we feel is appropriate to the Department) are hoping to raise a considerable amount of cash for Bolton Hospice helping smash their £100,000 target.

“I am also walking for my mum who is also currently undergoing aggressive treatment for Lymphoma.

“Her spirits are high and she keeps on smiling throughout her ordeal so here’s a great big cheer to everyone for taking part in this year’s Midnight Memories Walk for Bolton Hospice.”

Ms Longworth said: “I have been doing the midnight memories walk alternate years for the people of Bolton & surrounding area.

“This year I wasn’t going to do it (as I did it last year) but following on from having a mammogram I changed my mind and want to show that you can hopefully participate whilst undergoing treatment.

“I hope to carry on doing the midnight memories walk for many years to come.”

The walk takes place on June 16, starting at 10pm at The Market Place.

Walkers will go up Chorley New Road past the hospice before a pit-stop at Meadowhill Nursery for refreshments before the second half back to the start point.

At The Market Place there is a celebration and medal presentation and time to reflect on what the night means to each participant.

Register for the sponsored walk at boltonhospice.org.uk online.