MORE than 1,000 people took part in an annual nighttime charity walk.

Participants in the Sue Ryder Starlight Hike Worth Valley, many dressed in bright costumes and with glow-in-the-dark accessories, could choose to tackle a five-kilometre or 10k walk.

A Starlight Express train on the Keighley & Worth Valley line took the hikers to the start for a marshalled walk – following a route through villages, countryside and the Manorlands hospice grounds at Oxenhope, where people had the opportunity to place a poignant dedication in honour of someone special to them.

And a new addition this year was a 'donation station', where people could drop off unwanted clothes to be sold through Sue Ryder charity shops.

All finishers received a medal made from sustainably sourced wood.

Saturday's (October 12) walk – again sponsored by Stirk Lambert & Co Chartered Accountants – is expected to raise £102,000, once all monies have been collected.

Rachel Binns, head of hospice fundraising at Manorlands, pays tribute to everyone who supported the event.

She says: "Thank you so much to everybody who took part in this year’s Starlight Hike.

"It was truly amazing to see the crowds shining bright in dazzling outfits and spectacular accessories, celebrating the memory of their loved ones while helping to raise funds so that Sue Ryder can continue to be there when it matters most.

"We are also extremely grateful to our dedicated team of volunteers and to everyone who helped entertain the walkers in such an energetic and fun way. Without your support, we wouldn’t be able to put on this fantastic event each year.

"Last year, Sue Ryder’s hospice teams provided care to over 8,700 people – including at Manorlands and within their own homes. Alongside our expert and compassionate palliative care services, Sue Ryder offers support to people living with grief at a time when they need it most. By taking part in this year’s Starlight Hike, you have helped us to ensure no one has to die or grieve alone.

"Sue Ryder Starlight Hike Worth Valley is set to return in 2025. Keep an eye out for the date."

Manorlands supports patients with life-limiting illnesses and their families at the hospice and in the community, across an area covering Craven, Airedale, Wharfedale and parts of Bradford.

All services are free to patients and their loved ones, but it costs over £10,000 a day to keep the hospice running.