The date for this year’s Starlight Walk in aid of Walsall Hospice is revealed today – and organisers hope the fundraiser will smash the £20,000 mark.

The walk takes place on September 17 at Walsall Arboretum, and it is hoped it can build on the success of last year’s inaugural event.

Around 1,000 people turned out for the first candle-lit walk in aid of the new hospice being built in Goscote Lane, which is to open in February 2011.

The event raked in a massive £20,000 for the new facility, being built on the site of the former Goscote Hospital.

Now it is hoped even more people will show their support for the second walk, raising thousands more pounds towards the £1.5million needed to run and equip the hospice in its first year.

The walk will begin at 7pm and people can register now to take part in the five circuits of the Arboretum -  around 5.5 miles.

The route is suitable for people of all fitness levels and people are also welcome to take part with prams and pushchairs. Dogs on leads are also welcome.

Among those who are stepping out in support again will be Streetly songbird Connie Talbot, who soared to fame after winning the hearts of the nation on Britain’s Got Talent by singing Over The Rainbow, and Mayor of Walsall councillor Gary Clarke.

Cheryl Bradburne from Walsall Hospice fundraising team said: “It was brilliant last time but this year we are looking for even more people to join in.”

Bands, entertainers and a funfair are also lined up to  help make the event in September a fun family night out.

Construction of the £5.5m hospice started in November.

It marks the end of a 20-year campaign to get a hospice created in Walsall.

Anyone who wants to  register for the walk must fill in an application form and return it with the registration fee before September 10.

Registration will cost £10 per family (up to two adults and two children), £5 per adult and £2.50 for extra children.

For more information call the fundraising team at the hospice on 01922 423578.

Online registration is available at www.walsallhospice.co.uk or you can fill in a form here.