Hundreds turn out for Walk of Smiles charity event (From Wharfedale Observer)

Hundreds turn out for Walk of Smiles charity event

8:00am Tuesday 18th September 2012 in Local news

They came as Oompa-Loompas, cartoon characters and fairytale heroes to support an “amazing day” of fundraising.

Hundreds of colourfully-dressed people turned out to take part in the 2012 Walk of Smiles from Horsforth to Kirkstall on Saturday.

Organised by Horsforth schoolgirl Bethany Hare, the event also featured live entertainment – including a performance by Bethany herself as Charlie Chaplin – on a purpose-built stage.

Bethany’s mother, Yvonne, said: “Everything ran perfectly, it was an amazing day. The weather was absolutely fantastic. Everyone was very relaxed watching fabulous entertainment on the stage, and Bethany managed to find a band called Func on the Rocks, who performed totally free for her even though they had another event in the evening.

“There were also a few of Bethany’s friends from Scala Performing Arts taking part, and the fabulous Jack Howard from Horsforth School.”

Eighty per cent of the money raised from the circular 10km sponsored walk will be donated to Martin House Children’s Hospice, while the rest will be used by Bethany’s Smile to support children with life-limiting and life-threatening illnesses.

Visit justgiving.com/bethanyssmile to donate. Bethany would also like to hear from anyone interested in doing a sponsored sky dive. E-mail bethany-ssmile@virginmedia.com for details.