The Story of Melodie's Walk

Melodie's Walk began in 2016, but its story runs far deeper than a single event.

Melodie Lomax had a rare and special gift – she brought people together. Through friendship, kindness, humour and sheer determination, she had a way of making people feel connected, included and part of something bigger than themselves.

In her final year, Melodie took on several charity events, driven by a desire to do good and help others. Among them, one idea stood out. The walk, a shared challenge through the New Forest, became the biggest of those efforts, not just in scale, but in the way it united people. No one could have known at the time just how far it would go, or the lasting impact it would have.

Melodie bravely attended the first Melodie's Walk in May 2016. Later that same month, on 31st May 2016, she sadly passed away. In that first year alone, the event raised over £20,000, a powerful reflection of the love, support and togetherness she inspired.

A legacy that lives on

What could have been a one-off moment became something far greater.

Since 2016, Melodie's Walk has taken place every year, growing steadily while staying true to its heart. The walk itself remains the foundation – a shared journey, side by side – but the event has evolved in ways that reflect the spirit Melodie was known for.

In recent years, the evening fundraiser has grown into what it is today: music, dancing, fancy dress, laughter and connection. With DJ Big T and a full Country & Western night, it's become as much about celebration as it is about fundraising, a place where everyone is welcome.

Why we keep walking

Melodie's Walk is living proof of Melodie's greatest legacy: her ability to unite people.

Friends, families, walkers, supporters and complete strangers come together year after year, and the sense of community continues to grow. What began as one person's determination has become a collective effort, carried forward by hundreds of people who share the same spirit.

Every step taken, every song played and every pound raised carries Melodie's memory forward. The walk continues because of her and because of the community she brought together – and continues to bring together – long after she's gone.