FARLIEGH Hospice has announced that £80,000 was raised at the annual Walk for Life event.

The sponsored event, which this year celebrated its 25th anniversary, saw 830 participants enjoying a leisurely stroll across the Essex countryside on one of two scenic routes.

Walkers were given the choice of embarking upon either a 12km route from Paper Mill Lock in Little Baddow or a 24km route from Heybridge Basin, both finishing at the Teledyne E2V building in Chelmsford.

Many walked in remembrance of loved ones, with some writing heartfelt tributes to friends and family that they then pinned to their t-shirts.

The hospice in Chelmsford provides hospice care to people affected by life-limiting illnesses across mid Essex.

Dominique Brunning, Fundraising Manager for Farleigh Hospice, said: “It has been a privilege this year to hear so many wonderful stories of supporters that have been a part of Walk for Life over the last 25 years.

"One woman started doing it with her daughter, and now has her granddaughter joining them for the first time - three generations stepping out to support Farleigh Hospice together.

“As an events team we would like to say a tremendous thank you to all those that helped bring the event together and helped us raise thousands this year.”

For more information on the hospice visit www..farleighhospice.org/