Yarm woman to do Teesside Hospice midnight walk for husband

Jane Simpson, from Yarm, is set to take part in Teesside Hospice’s midnight walk on Sunday, March 14, for her late husband Jonathan ‘Paul’ Simpson, who passed away in the hospice’s care late last year.

After three weeks of care in the hospice, Paul died peacefully just days before his 46th birthday on November 13, leaving behind Jane, and their two sons – Tyler, 15, and Jake, 19.

Jonathan ‘Paul’ Simpson (Image: TEESSIDE HOSPICE)

Jane said he was “surrounded by love” when he passed away in the hospice, which had become like a second home for the family and their close friends.

“From day one, I was completely blown away by the care, compassion and love shown by every single member of staff,” added the 48-year-old.

“Their dedication and kindness went far beyond anything we could ever have expected, and I will be forever grateful to them all.”

Jonathan ‘Paul’ Simpson with sons Tyler and Jake (Image: TEESSIDE HOSPICE)

Paul had previously managed his son Tyler’s football games, but soon became too unwell to leave the hospice to continue.

The staff came together to find ways to help him continue to “feel part of the team he loved so much” – including livestreaming the games.

Jane said: “Our friend Rachael managed to livestream the games so Paul could watch them from the hospice.

“The staff all understood just how much this meant to him and would always ask how the team had done when we went in, joining us in the post-match debrief whilst rearranging his pillows.

“These moments, and the love and understanding shown by the hospice staff, meant everything to us and gave us memories we will cherish forever.”

Jonathan ‘Paul’ Simpson with wife Jane (Image: TEESSIDE HOSPICE)

The annual event sees hundreds of supporters walk the 11km from Redcar to Marske and back, lighting up the streets in memory of their loved ones.

Last year’s midnight walk raised £80,000 for the Middlesbrough-based hospice, as almost 700 people took part in the event.

Jane said: “I am taking part in the Midnight Walk for my gorgeous husband and dad to our boys, but also to raise as much money as possible so that other families facing the worst moments of their lives can continue to receive this incredible support from these amazing people.”

The Midnight Walk will begin from Redcar and Cleveland College, with registration opening at 8pm.

Participants can then collect t-shirts and boppers, enjoy the entertainment, and take part in the warm-up before heading off on the walk.

Teesside Hospice midnight walk 2025 (Image: TEESSIDE HOSPICE)

Tilly Roberts, Community and Events Manager at Teesside Hospice, said: “Our goal is to be there for everyone who needs us, ensuring local people have access to the very best end of life and care and supporting them and their families through all stages.

“It costs around £6.75 million annually for us to operate, and every pound raised by our Midnight Walkers will go towards offering this care and helping our patients and their loved ones make special memories.”

Entry to the event is £15, which includes a Midnight Walk t-shirt, finishers medal, flashing head boppers and a sponsorship pack, as well as food, entertainment and more on the day.