A family supported by Tŷ Gobaith children’s hospice will sound the starting horn at the charity's Dark Run event.

Penrhyn Bay's Michelle and Pete Hughes, whose daughter Matilda has a rare neurological disorder, are backing the spooky 5km run at Conwy RSPB on October 26.

The event is open to all ages and abilities, with participants encouraged to run, walk, dance or skip along the illuminated and soundtracked route towards the famous castle.

Spooky fancy dress is encouraged and glow sticks will be given to all.

The Hughes family first came to know Tŷ Gobaith in the Conwy Valley after Matilda was diagnosed with her condition at just four weeks old, which causes her to have up to 30 seizures a day.

PICTURED: (L-R) Pete, Matilda and Michelle Hughes are grateful to Tŷ GobaithPICTURED: (L-R) Pete, Matilda and Michelle Hughes are grateful to Tŷ Gobaith (Image: Supplied)

Mrs Hughes said: "We first visited the hospice during the pandemic after a community nurse introduced us.

"It felt very odd letting other people do things for Matilda instead of just us, but the nurses are so professional and understand her condition that we had such trust in them from the start."

The family has since developed a strong bond with the hospice, with Matilda enjoying regular respite stays.

This gives her parents a much-needed break, knowing that she is in safe hands.

Mrs Hughes said: "When we take Matilda we get the chance to talk to the nurses and sometimes other parents who are going through similar experiences, which is a great help.

"There have been some nice family facing events at Tŷ Gobaith over the summer and some of the groups have started back which is very handy.

"It was lovely to come up and have that time with other families who understand our challenges."

(Image: Supplied) The Hughes family are keen supporters of the Dark Run event and are grateful for the fundraising efforts that help keep Tŷ Gobaith's services running.

Mrs Hughes said: "The hospice is a lifeline for so many of us.

"The support we get off everybody is fantastic and we’re so grateful.

"We would like to say thank you to people who donate and fundraise to keep Tŷ Gobaith's services running."

There are still places available for anyone who wants to take part and support the charity. 

To sign up, visit the Hope House website, where more information about the event can be found: www.hopehouse.org.uk/events/