Thousand people expected for Weymouth's midnight charity walk

They have signed up for the fourth annual sponsored trek from the Pavilion to Bowleaze and back.

Organisers said the number of walkers – 858 so far – was slightly down on last year but still expected the event to be a great success.

The fundraiser is one of the biggest for the Weldmar Hospicecare Trust and raises about £100,000 a year.

Organiser Sue Leighton said: “It’s going to be a fantastic sight to see almost 900 ladies walking along Weymouth seafront at midnight to raise money for Weldmar Hospicecare Trust. “The scene will be awash with lime-green t-shirts and flashing bunny ears, plus a few spectacular additions to the walking attire. “This is a fun event with fantastic camaraderie amongst the walkers.

“Why not come along to support them and soak up the atmosphere?”

Walkers will tackle either a six-kilometre walk from Weymouth Pavilion to Overcombe Corner or a 10km route which goes on to the Riviera Hotel at Bowleaze Cove. Last year, walkers raised £105,000 in sponsorship.

Jo Richards and Sarah Breaks, both from Sutton Poyntz, will again lead the walkers.

Mrs Leighton said: “I would like to thank everyone who is undertaking the walk and their sponsors.

“I also want to thank all volunteers marshalling the route and helping with registration and refreshments.

“The event could not go ahead without their help. “The support received from local businesses has been invaluable and special thanks go to main sponsors New Look and to Balti House Restaurant, Universal Engineering, Lanehouse Vauxhall, Costa Coffee, Bookers and Curves.” She added: “We are hoping to raise £100,000 to enable the continuation of specialist services.”

Debbie Kay, who works in the finance department at New Look, has battled breast cancer and signed up for the walk.

Laura Stone, who also works at New Look and is a member of the Weymouth-based Ladies Alive fund-raising group, has also backed the event.

l See the Dorset Echo on Monday for pictures of the walkers.