Peterborough theatre society members to step out for Sue Ryder for second time in memory of much-loved member
“The sense of community was really strong because so many people locally think so much of Sue Ryder and the local hospice”
Members from Peterborough Operatic and Dramatic Society (PODS) will take part in Sue Ryder Starlight Hike Your Way this October, creating their own 10k walk in memory their former president and much-loved friend, Tricia Glaves.
This will be the second year that 'Team Tricia' has organised their own walk in their friend's memory and to support Sue Ryder. Tricia was cared for at Sue Ryder Thorpe Hall Hospice in Peterborough the final days of her life and died in early September 2025 - just before their first hike.
Hannah Ogden, member of PODS, said: "We first signed up for Starlight Hike last year while rehearsing for PODS’ 125th anniversary concert, which Tricia had played a key role in shaping. We wanted to do something in her memory while also raising money for a cause that meant so much to us."
Each October, Sue Ryder Starlight Hike brings the community together to remember people who are special to them, while raising money for the charity's expert palliative, end-of-life care and grief support.
Following two years of weather-related cancellations in Peterborough, Sue Ryder is actively searching for a new location for the much-loved event. In the meantime, Starlight Hike Your Way means that no one misses out on the chance to create their own walk in a place and at a time that is meaningful to them.
Hannah continues: "When the hike was cancelled due to weather, we were disappointed, but the group felt strongly that they still wanted to take part and honour Tricia's memory.
“It initially felt very raw being so soon after Tricia died, but it wasn't a sad event at all. It was uplifting and special, and we knew that Tricia would have been cheering us on every step of the way."
Hannah adds: “The sense of community was really strong because so many people locally think so much of Sue Ryder and the local hospice. We were all together, linking arms and carrying each other along. It was such a lovely event.”
“We had fairy lights, wings, torches, glitter and one member brough along a speaker to play music. It felt like a really special occasion," she added.
Reflecting on why the PODS are continuing to support Sue Ryder, Hannah said: "When I visited Tricia at Sue Ryder Thorpe Hall Hospice, I wasn't quite sure what to expect because I'd never been there before. But the atmosphere felt calm, peaceful and full of compassion.
"Everyone was so warm and caring. It takes truly special people to provide that kind of care and support, and it was clear how much they cared about the people and families they were looking after."
This year's Team Tricia Starlight Hike will take place on Saturday 3 October, but people are being invited to pick a date throughout the month that works for them.
"We have around 20 members already signed up this year, and for those who don't feel like they can't take part, they will be on the sidelines supporting us," says Hannah.
“It's really easy to set up Starlight Hike Your Way. You can do it in your local area, village, town, or wherever feels right to you."
"I used to work around Ferry Meadows, so I knew the area well and was able to pick a safe route avoiding paths affected by the bad weather last year. It felt meaningful because it was local, familiar, and accessible, with people of different ages and abilities able to take part. We will be taking on a similar 10k route this year."
It is free to register for Starlight Hike Your Way, and everyone who signs up will receive a walker pack to help them get started. Sue Ryder suggests a sponsorship target of £100 per adult, which could fund three hours of expert care from a Sue Ryder Nurse. Everyone who raises £60 and more will receive a t-shirt and special medal.
While people can take part at any time, Sue Ryder encourages everyone to walk during daylight hours where possible for their safety. Anyone walking at night should follow the safety guidance provided in their walker pack.
To find out more about Starlight Hike Your Way and to register, visit sueryder.org/StarlightYourWay.
To support PODS with their fundraising visit: Team Tricia is fundraising for Sue Ryder