AN emotional night saw a record breaking number of people take on a ten mile walk to raise vital funds for a town's hospice.

St Mary's Hospice, in Ulverston, is celebrating its biggest and best Walk To Remember to date.

This year 742 walkers made their way from the Ulverston Leisure Centre to Furness Academy in Barrow.

Men, women, children and even dogs lined up at twilight on Friday (July 6) clothed in anything from running gear to tutus.

Following a warm up they were off on their journey which has come to mean so much for hospice staff and hospice patients alike over the years.

Mel Dixon, events and challenges lead at St Mary's, said: "St Mary's is a very special place where the team of dedicated doctors and nurses work tirelessly every single day and night to ensure that our patients and their families feel loved and supported whilst in our care. But we can only continue to be special duty generous people like yourselves, so thanks to each and everyone of you."

Since it was established 12 years ago the walk has become a fixture on the town's calendar. As its following increased local firms offered their support to help make it the success it continues to be.

This year the walk's principal partner was Ørsted, with additional support coming from Charnley's in Dalton and Tesco who donated fruit for the participants."

As well as giving families the chance to remember their loved ones, the Walk To Remember is also a chance for St Mary's staff to reflect on the work they do.

The event also gives staff and the families impacted by the hospice's work an opportunity to reconnect and rekindle friendships forged in incredibly difficult situations.

Kimberley Everett, heath care assistant who works at the hospice's inpatient unit, said: "I always feel honoured to work on the IPU, it’s such a lovely place. However last Friday was amazing and it was lovely to see families of those we’ve cared for and those that appreciate us."

Staff at the hospice have said the final total raised by the event will be announced later in the year, but are hoping it will surpass the £57,000 raised in 2017.