It is almost time for last orders for Mike and Chris Parsons who run The Old Plough in Ashton-on-Mersey, Sale.

The couple plan to mark their retirement from the pub by taking part in the Manchester Midnight Walk in aid of St Ann’s Hospice on Friday, June 24.

They have already raised more than £15,000 for the charity through various fundraising initiatives at the pub where they have served regulars for the last 15 years.

The hospice has a special place in Chris’ heart after her late father Sam Stabler, from Eccles, was a patient there.

The Manchester Midnight Walk is celebrating its 10th anniversary and Chris has taken part in all of them apart from one occasion.

Chris said: “I had sciatica so couldn’t do the 10k walk one year. It’s a superb night and a great buzz with more 2,000 people taking part, raising money for such a good cause.

“I’ll never forget how well they cared for my dad and will carry on doing the walk each year.”

Mike and Chris will hold their traditional concert in the pub car park in Green Lane on July 23 as their final fundraiser before bowing out to split their time between Manchester and South Africa where they have family.

Mike said: “In some ways we’re scared to leave the pub because we’ve got such great memories and have made so many friends. The Plough is very much part of the community.”

Other managers from Hydes Brewery plan to join them in the walk as they did last year.

Manchester Midnight Walk

The Manchester Midnight Walk leaves Manchester Central at midnight, with a musical and entertainment warm up there from 9 pm.

The flat route includes landmarks such as the Hilton Hotel, old Granada Studios, Spinningfields, Manchester Arena, the Northern Quarter and the universities before returning to Manchester Central.

Entry is £20; £15 for past walkers and £10 if aged 11 to 17. To register go to www.mmwalk.org.uk or call the St Ann’s fundraising team on 0161 498 3631.

The registration fee covers running costs but does not contribute towards  sponsorship so walkers are urged to raise as much as possible for St Ann’s Hospice.