Woman takes on starlight hike in memory of best friend

Sian Hart (pictured right) is set to do her eighth Sue Ryder Starlight Hike

A woman is preparing to take on her eighth charity hike under the stars in memory of a childhood best friend.

Sian Hart, 50, from Abbeydale in Gloucester, has signed up to do the 10km Sue Ryder Starlight Hike in Cheltenham, in memory of Catherine Kadodia, who died aged 41 from cancer.

The challenge takes place on 19 October and starts at Ashley Manor Preparatory School and continues along a route around the town, with live entertainment along the way.

Ms Hart said the first time she took part she was "overwhelmed" by the "sense of community" and has urged others who have lost loved ones to take part.

Ms Kadodia died in 2015 having spent her final days being cared for by the team at Sue Ryder Leckhampton Court Hospice near Cheltenham.

Now, in the friend's 50th birthday year, Ms Hart will lace up her trainers once again for the charity fundraiser.

“Catherine and I met when I was nine years old," Ms Hart said.

"We walked together to primary school every day, then went on to secondary school together and remained friends into adulthood.

“She was the kindest most generous person. She had the best laugh and smile."

Ms Hart said her best friend was the "kindest most generous person"

Ms Hart said the end-of-life care Ms Kadodia, who was a nurse, received at the Sue Ryder hospice was "amazing".

"When we went in to say goodbye to Catherine, they let us have time and space together," she added.

"The hospice grounds are beautiful and the nicest place to visit still now."

As part of the hike, there is an opportunity for participants to pass through the grounds of the hospice and place a star in memory of someone they love and miss.

“As soon as I hit the driveway and see the festoon lights the event changes into something personal,” said Ms Hart.

“The emotions come flooding back.

“I would like to encourage anyone thinking about signing up for Sue Ryder Starlight Hike Cheltenham to do it, you won’t regret it. It’s magical."

Over the years, Ms Hart has raised nearly £2,200 for the charity.