On Saturday, 25 June when 149 people walked in memory and celebration of their loved ones. Participants were welcomed at Mayfield Lavender Farm to take on the 6-mile route through Surrey’s picturesque lavender fields and Oaks Park.

St Raphael’s Lavender Walk returned to Mayfield Lavender Farm for the 3^rd year and has so far raised over £6,200 and counting.

Lorna Maye, owner of Mayfield Lavender Farm, explains the “great friendship we’ve developed with St Raphael’s over the last few years. We are delighted to support their fundraising efforts, especially during a time where fundraising has been in crisis. The sponsored walk marries the Hospice and our farm seamlessly, as two places that are very dear to a great deal of people. I hope that we will be able to continue to support St Raphael’s and welcome their supporters over many years to come.”

Members of the community participated in the event, with children as young as 3 months old in their strollers enjoying the route alongside their families.

The Sollis / Dunmall family (pictured above) signed up to the Lavender Walk in memory of their mum and nan, Joyce Sollis. It was a very special and emotional walk for the family. Barbara, despite having arthritis of the hip, wished to honour her mum through the walk and completed it hand-in-hand with her family at the finish line. Afterwards, there was no time to rest, as they hosted a family party in celebration of their mum and nan to mark the occasion!

“St Raphael’s Lavender Walk is more than a walk, it’s a special time set aside to reflect and celebrate those we love and miss dearly. It is such a beautiful day out in Surrey’s woodlands and lavender fields. It is great to give back to St Raphael’s where we can, as they’ve been there for all of us for over 35 years.” – Sharon Dunmall, participant of this year’s event.

The Lavender Memory Walk is one of St Raphael’s flagship fundraising events, which has raised over £33,000 since its launch, and has become a highlight of St Raphael’s annual calendar.