STAFF at pizza firm are preparing for a slice of the action as they limber up for this year's Midnight Memories walk.

Stateside Food — based in Westhoughton — has been announced as sponsors of the Bolton Hospice event and workers their are planning to raise plenty of dough ahead of the walk.

This year’s walk celebrates the ninth anniversary of the highly popular event.

With a new start time of 10pm the hospice hopes will encourage more families, work colleagues and friends to come together on the night to support the charity.

The hospice is introducing a new initiative this year by offering entrants the latest in wearable technology — a xyloband.

The radio controlled wristband will be programmed to illuminate at midnight, providing a stunning and poignant visual effect on the night.

If you would like to walk to remember a loved one, walk as a warrior to show that you have battled and are surviving cancer, walk for fun, walk as a team or just walk to keep fit then join us on the night and we promise to make this a night to remember.

Maria Passarello, events manager at the hospice, said: "We are delighted to have the generous sponsorship from Stateside Food.

"Their support will be significant to this event and we are looking forward to working with all their staff to make this a great success.

"I would like to urge everyone to join us on the walk to make it a night to remember for you.

"Your loved ones and for all the patients and families that need our special care."