More than 500 people took to the streets of Cheltenham in a 10k walk under the stars for the only inpatient unit hospice in the county.

Despite Storm Brian tearing through the county earlier that day, 523 walkers bravely took to the streets in their neon and bright lights to raise funds for Sue Ryder Leckhampton Court Hospice at the Capita-sponsored Starlight Hike.

Together the walkers covered 5,000km, and have so far raised an incredible £40,000 for the hospice charity, with donations still coming in.

Elise Hoadley, hospice director at Sue Ryder Leckhampton Court Hospice, said: “We were quite literally blown away by the support for this year’s Starlight Hike despite the awful weather as a result of Storm Brian earlier in the day.

“Starlight Hike always has a very special atmosphere – one of celebration and remembrance – and this year was no exception thanks to the support of our amazing volunteers and partners, and all those walkers who turned out to be with us on the night.

“We’re staggered by the fantastic fundraising of our participants, which could help provide 2,500 hours of care at the hospice.

“This will make a huge difference to those families who need our specialist hospice care. I want to share our gratitude and thanks to everyone who took part and supported this year’s event.”

For the second year running participants were invited to walk through the grounds of the hospice itself to leave a message on a wall of stars.

Next year’s Starlight Hike will take place at St Edward’s Prep School, Cheltenham, on Saturday 20th October from 7pm.