When the clock strikes 12 to mark the start of the Manchester Midnight Walk next month, it will be a poignant moment for the family of the late Ann Bradshaw.

She would have reached her 71st birthday just as walkers set off from Manchester Central at midnight on Friday, June 23, to begin the 10km sponsored walk.

Ten members of Ann’s family, including son Carlos and twin sister Michelle, will join around 1,500 other walkers in the popular annual event organised by St Ann’s Hospice.

Ann, who ran a launderette in Gatley for more than 20 years and lived in Peel Hall, Wythenshawe, was a patient at St Ann’s before she died of cancer in January having been diagnosed only three months earlier.

Carlos, from Heaton Chapel, said: “It’ll be an emotional night, especially as it would have been mum’s birthday, but we’re looking forward to the occasion and four grandchildren are also taking part. Mum knew everyone and would do anything for anyone.

“She made it quite clear she wanted to spend her last days at St Ann’s and the care she received was amazing. It’s important to raise funds from sponsorship at these events so that such care can be provided for other patients in the future.”

Carlos and his colleagues are also organising a collection at the BP petrol station in Heaton Mersey where he works and also supports the hospice lottery.

The walk, now in its 11th year, covers landmarks such as Manchester Cathedral, St Ann’s Square and Spinningfields. Entertainment is provided at Manchester Central from 9pm.

Many fundraisers walk in memory of loved ones, with others happy to join the fun at this family event and organisers are still accepting late entries.

• To register call the hospice on 0161 498 3631 or visit the Midnight Walk website.