WET weather could not halt a bunch of determined women who stepped out on Saturday night to say thank you to Prospect Hospice.

Armed with umbrellas and rain macs, 600 women took part in the Starlight Walk.

The walk, which started and finished at Croft Sports Centre, is the charity’s biggest fundraiser of the year.

Last year 650 walkers raised £87,000 towards the £4.5m needed annually to keep the hospice running.

This year walkers could choose between a 10km or 15km course and a patriotic theme was picked to mark the Queen’s diamond jubilee.

Prospect Hospice spokesman Andrew Thompson said he was pleased with the turn-out despite the wet weather.

He said: “This is our biggest fundraiser of the year.

“We have hundreds of women come and raise money to show their appreciation to the hospice.

“Last year they raised £87,000 for us, which is vital in going towards the everyday running of the hospice.

“It makes a huge difference to the care we are able to provide for our patients and their families.

“We want to say a huge thank you to everyone who is taking part.

“The weather is not great but that just shows the commitment they show to the cause.

“We would also like to thank Nationwide who have sponsored this event which is now in its fifth year.”

Among the walkers was Sally Rachael, 36, of Abbey Meads, who was determined to do her bit to help the hospice, and was supported by her friends in patriotic attire.

Sally wanted to support the hospice after her mother was diagnosed with cancer and was even wearing some of her mother’s jewellery so she was with her every step of the way.

She said: “My mum is with Prospect and we wanted to show our support.

They have been really good for mum and the family with the care and support they give.

Chris Sanders was doing the walk for the third time on Saturday night with daughters Laura Tweddel and Becky Frankland.

Chris lost both her father, Arthur Lee, and son Richard Tweddel to cancer two years ago in the space of six weeks and has found the walk to be cathartic.

She said: “My son Richard, who was only 33, and dad were both in Prospect and died within six weeks of each other.

“This is the third time we have done it and it is something that is fun.

“And being with every one who are all doing it for there own reason but for the same cause is really nice.”

Laura said: “For how ever long it takes, they are with us for that time, which is nice.”