A MUM and her daughters are taking on a starlit challenge in memory of loved ones.
Sarah McManus, 50, from Farnhill, will walk the 10km Sue Ryder Starlight Hike Worth Valley on Saturday, October 3, alongside her daughters Drew-Danielle Baker, 32, and Emmi-Louise, 10.
They are walking in memory of Sarah’s parents-in-law, Mary and Kevin McManus. Kevin died in January 2010 after being diagnosed with lung cancer, while Mary died in January 2022 after doctors told her she had COPD and lung cancer.
Kevin received end-of-life care at Sue Ryder Manorlands Hospice before he died in January 2010.
Sarah said: "The Starlight Hike Worth Valley is such a unique experience.
"You really enjoy the walk side of it, the starting warm up, the atmosphere, the people on the streets supporting.
"All of those elements combined makes such a good community event for an ultra-special cause like Sue Ryder."
Grandad Kevin with first Grandson, Ben (Image: Supplied)
Mary died in January 2022 after being diagnosed with COPD and lung cancer.
The family is also walking in support of Sarah’s stepdad, Alex Devlin, who is receiving support from Sue Ryder Manorlands Hospice following his lung cancer diagnosis in May 2025.
Sarah praised the hospice for the care it gave Kevin.
She said: "It was only a short stay but whilst there they looked after him and us very well.
"The offer of support from Sue Ryder was there to help long before his stay happened though, and we will always be grateful for that."
The Starlight Hike offers families the chance to walk under the stars in memory of loved ones while raising money for Sue Ryder’s palliative and bereavement care services.
Sarah, Drew-Danielle and Emmi-Louise originally aimed to raise £100, but have already raised £440 and are now hoping to reach at least £500.
Sarah said: "It will be empowering to know we are raising funds for such a special charity.
"Especially given many of the people taking part in the walk has gone or will be going through a similar journey to ours.
"I'd encourage anyone to think about singing up to please join us, to help Sue Ryder so it can continue to be there for people living with incurable illnesses and their families."