IT is nearly a year since Kate D’Arcy passed away from cancer at the age of just 37.

Kate was the bubbly, lively, entrepreneur who, along with her co founder and executive chef Ruth Hurren, created well-known St Albans restaurant Darcy’s on Hatfield Road.

Last year in June, just days after Kate’s death, her colleagues at Darcy’s took part in the Grove House Midnight Walk. The team, who were like family to Kate, walked the 10 miles in memory of her and in recognition of the care and support that the nurses at Grove House hospice provided. They raised over �2,000 for the hospice as a result.

Ruth and her team at Darcy’s continue to offer fresh, innovative and affordable food combined with the warm and friendly welcome for which Kate was renowned. But her early death has left a huge hole in the lives of those closest to her including her ‘family’ at Darcy’s.

In memory of Kate and for their continued thanks to Grove House for the support she was given during her illness, the restaurant is donating �1 from every table during May and June.

Ruth said: “Kate was a very dear friend and was an inspiration to everyone who knew her. I am still finding out now just how courageous she was during her battle with cancer.

“Seeing someone go through this devastating disease first hand makes you realise just how important places like Grove House hospice are.

“At Darcy’s we are determined to make sure that we do all we can to ensure that other people like Kate can receive the same care. Taking part in the Midnight Walk last year was a hugely emotional experience for everyone in the team.

“The experience of walking with so many people for such a great cause cannot be matched. I would urge anyone who is thinking of doing the walk this year to just sign up and go for it.”

The Midnight Walk takes place on Saturday, June 25, starting at Westminster Lodge at 10.30pm. The hospice which has recently merged with Iain Rennie is hoping to raise �125,000 from the event.

Anyone who raises over �125 (the equivalent to a hospice nurse for the day) will be entered into the draw to win some great prizes including dinner for two at Darcy’s.

To register for the Midnight Walk visit www.midnightwalk.org or call 01727 731002. To book a table at Darcy’s call 01727 730777 or email info@darcysrestaurant.co.uk