17 Apr 2026 Community

A Decade of Dedication: Angela’s Starlight Walk Story

Each summer, thousands of supporters come together for The Kirkwood Starlight Walk, lighting up the streets of Huddersfield in a powerful show of remembrance, celebration and community. Among them is Angela Pelan, a dedicated nurse with The Kirkwood, who has been taking part in the event for over a decade, alongside her family.

For Angela, the walk is far more than just a challenge. It is a deeply personal experience that brings together her professional role, her family life, and her understanding of the difference The Kirkwood makes to people at the most important times of their lives.

Angela said: “I have been taking part in The Kirkwood Starlight Walk for 10 years. When I did my first one, I thought I'd only be able to do the 6 miles at that time of night, but I soon learned that the 10 miles is very achievable as the atmosphere and encouragement of the crowd carries you along. My husband Martin and three children Conor, Róisín and Fergus have all started coming and it feels a great family event to do together.

“There is a great feeling when you set off as a crowd, with cheers and streamers from the volunteers who also encourage you at the stops along the way. The view of the snaking line of flashing lights and matching bright T-shirts, a crowd at first that separates out as the miles go on, is memorable. Róisín loves how the T-shirts make great pyjamas! A bag of snacks and drinks helps us to keep going those final few miles with tired legs and feet. There's the cars that pass by and beep their horns to encourage us on! And the huge congratulating welcome, medal and veggie sausage sandwich and cup of tea when we get to the finish line to look forward to!

“Martin loves to see how much money we and others have been able to raise by doing the walk each year, money which I know from experience is invaluable to the work of The Kirkwood.”

Angela’s connection to The Kirkwood runs far deeper than the walk itself. Having worked as a senior staff nurse on the In-Patient Unit for 18 years, she has seen first hand the impact of the care provided and the powerful connections it creates with families.

She added: “I have worked as senior staff nurse at The Kirkwood for 18 years on the In-Patient Unit and to see the names and photos of people I have cared for on the back of T-shirts of the families walking in their memory, reminds me of the privilege of caring for people at the end of life.

“The Kirkwood is such a special place, caring for patients and families in the hospice and supporting them at home at the most important part of their lives. When my dad was dying at home two years ago, The Kirkwood community nurse Sarah came out to see him and made sure his symptoms were managed, and The Kirkwood helped us coordinate his care. Conor commented about how kind the nurses were to Grandad and us."

Angela continued: “To be on the other side of the care The Kirkwood provides was eye-opening, and made me realise what a vital service we really are to the people of Kirklees.”

Angela’s story is shared not only by her, but also by her family, who have grown up experiencing the Starlight Walk and understanding its importance. Her 13-year-old son Fergus has his own reasons for taking part each year.

Fergus said: “I do the walk because I love the community and love how they welcome all. I’m linked to The Kirkwood because my mum works there. The Kirkwood is important because they are the friendliest people anywhere and support everyone no matter who they are.”

Angela’s story is a powerful reminder of what makes the Starlight Walk so special. It is not only a chance to come together as a community, but also an opportunity to honour loved ones, celebrate memories, and support the vital work of The Kirkwood.

If you’ve been inspired by Angela’s story, you can sign up for this year’s Starlight Walk by clicking HERE.