Responding to a request for help on social media platform, Linked In, Seaton Cleaning Supplies and DCD Teamwear kindly offered to sponsor the event, meaning that the costs of set-up and resources are covered and that more money raised can go back into the care services delivered by the Hospice.

Lee Haggan and Carl Sweeting, respectively directors of Seaton Cleaning Supplies and DCD Teamwear are brothers-in-law and decided to sponsor the event jointly.

Lee said, “When the Hospice posted to say they needed a sponsor, Carl and I both agreed that we could help through our businesses. We’re really excited to be involved and I have already been speaking to friends and clients who are keen to sign up for the event and show their support.”

Carl and his business partner, Shaun Jackson who are joint owners of DCD Teamwear added, “It’s a privilege to work with such a vital local resource for our community and we would urge as many businesses who can, to contact the Hospice to find out more about how they can make a difference. we’re sure the event will be a great success and are more than happy to be doing our bit to help.”

Both companies are existing supporters of the Hospice having been involved with a number of previous fundraising initiatives. Julie Hildreth, Fundraising Senior Manager at Alice House said, “We really appreciate this kind offer of support, which makes a very real difference to the lives of local Hospice patients and their families. We rely on the generosity of local organisations to sustain our services and are grateful to Seaton Cleaning Supplies and DCD Workwear for their continued support.

“We’re looking forward to starting the year with a great new event and hope that plenty of people will get involved and help to raise much needed funds for our services.”

The walk is a five-mile circular route, which leaves (and finishes at) Hartlepool Rugby Club, heading towards Crimdon Dene. The event aims to support men’s wellbeing and mental health, by encouraging group exercise in the fresh air and offering the opportunity to chat and meet new people.  Participants will receive a free drink and hot food upon completion of the walk.

On the same day, the Rugby Club will be screening the England V Wales, Six Nations Clash which kicks off at 4:45pm and all are welcome to stay in the bar for the game.

To sign up for the Men’s Day out, go to: https://register.enthuse.com/ps/event/MensDayOut

Prices are £10 for adults and £5 for under 18s.

Alice House Hospice provides care and support to people affected by life limiting illness or the death of a loved one in Hartlepool, Tees Valley and East Durham. It costs over £3.5m to fund these services for one year and the Hospice receives just less than 21% of this in Government funding, leaving a shortfall of just under £8,000 to be raised every single day.