WALKERS put their hearts into raising money for a good cause at the weekend.

The young and the not-so-young stretched their legs and soaked up the sunshine in aid of the British Heart Foundation (BHF) at the second Great Parks Charity walk in Weymouth.

Some 128 walkers are expected to have raised at least £4,000 for the charity.

Toddlers were first to cross the finish line after making their way around Greenhill Gardens, followed by families completing a three mile walk and the more serious walkers, who completed an eight mile route.

Lisa Mortimore, of Weymouth, was one of the first past the finish line with her ‘family’ – Cavalier King Charles spaniels Toby and Meg.

She said: “The weather has been superb and it was an absolutely fantastic walk.

“The dogs really enjoyed it but I think they are a little exhausted now.”

The charity walks, the brainchild of former Weymouth and Portland Mayor David Harris, were started off by current mayor Tim Munro.

Volunteers from the BHF’s local branch gave up their time to help organise walkers, while the Friends of Greenhill Gardens provided check points and refreshments.

Michelle Downham, chairwoman of the Friends, said: “All the members of the group were busy setting up from 7.30am.

“It’s good to see the gardens being used for community events and that’s what we’re trying to encourage more of.”

The event had particular significance for Peter Rendall, president of the Weymouth and Portland branch of the BHF, after he was rushed to hospital with a blocked artery last month.

The 73-year-old had two stents fitted in his arteries. Mr Rendall said: “It came as such a shock and it made me realise how important the BHF’s work is.”

BHF committee chairwoman Mary Watson ensured that every walker who crossed the line received a certificate of achievement.

She said: “This year we are trying to raise money for a BHF nurse for Dorset County Hospital.”

The walks were also supported by scouts from Weymouth and Portland District Explorers, Weymouth Swimming Pool, Wessex FM and Weymouth and Portland Borough Council.