Record 2,210 walkers raise more than £100,000 for Salisbury Hospital at Walk for Wards 2026

More than 2,200 people came together to support Salisbury Hospital as the Stars Appeal's 21st Walk for Wards attracted a record-breaking turnout at Wilton House, raising more than £100,000 for the hospital charity so far.

A total of 2,210 walkers registered for the annual sponsored event on Sunday, 5 July, choosing from 3km, 5km, 10km and 15km routes through the beautiful Wilton Estate. Many participants walked to thank the hospital staff who cared for them or their loved ones, while others took part in memory of family and friends.

Among those taking part was Daisy Stenner, who completed the walk dressed as Homer Simpson to celebrate being one year in remission after receiving chemotherapy on Pembroke Ward.

Another participant, Katie Merrett, walked with her family to thank the Neonatal Baby Unit that cared for her daughter Lucia after she was born prematurely. Katie praised the hospital staff and the Stars Appeal-funded parents' accommodation, saying it made an enormous difference during a difficult time.

The money raised will help the Stars Appeal work towards its £2 million fundraising target for 2026. Donations will fund new medical equipment, including a mammogram machine for the Breast Unit, improvements across Salisbury Hospital, support for cancer patients, a dedicated play assistant for the Children's Unit and free hospital Wi-Fi.

Stars Appeal Ambassador and Cancer Consultant Dr Tracey Parker thanked everyone who took part, along with sponsors, volunteers and local organisations who helped make the event possible.

Following another hugely successful year, organisers have confirmed that Walk for Wards will return in 2027, with the official date expected to be announced soon.