HUNDREDS of people - and one four-legged friend - took to the streets of Kendal last night for the eighth annual StarWalk.

Around 400 people dressed head-to-toe in pink turned out to complete either a 5k or a 15k route through the town, to raise money for CancerCare, which supports north Lancashire and South Lakeland cancer sufferers.

"In the current economic climate it's amazing so many people are willing to help CancerCare," said organiser, Helen Hartin, who completed the 5k route with her husband and two sons.

"I just can't thank everyone enough who has either taken part, sponsored someone or helped us make this happen."

She explained that she first organised the event in memory of her mum, Jennifer Burrows, who died after battling breast cancer for six years.

"So many people here have a story to tell," she continued.

"Raising money for CancerCare is so important."

The event began at around 9pm following a warm-up, balloon drop and entertainment from X Factor's Paul Akister.

Men, women and children all took part, dressed in tutus, tiaras and flashing lights - and were joined by tutu-wearing four-year-old cocker spaniel, Peggy, owned by CancerCare's fundraising team leader, Jane Staniford.

Several people took part in groups or with families, including a team of year nine pupils from Queen Elizabeth School in Kirkby Lonsdale.

The oldest participant was 86-year-old Arthur Hanson of Kendal.

"I had a friend who was involved in CancerCare and another who died at a hospice in Lancaster," he said.

"I think it's really important people raise money and awareness for CancerCare."