More than 900 people from all over the region showed their support for people living with life-limiting illness by participating in the Midnight Walk, organised by Hartlepool and District Hospice.

At the stroke of midnight on Saturday, town Olympian Jemma Lowe set the walkers on their way along the route from Hartlepool Marina to Seaton Carew and back.

Helen Mills, the hospice's chief executive, joined the walkers.

She said: "Saturday really was another night to remember, the spirit of the night was brilliant, everyone entered into it which was great.

"Although everyone was walking for their own reasons, we were united by a great sense of community spirit and a drive to make a difference to the lives of people in our community who are affected by life limiting illness."

The night started with an aerobic warm up by fitness instructor Jean Walsh, at Tees and Hartlepool Yacht Club, to some disco classics.

Onlookers lined the paths and stood on doorsteps to cheer the participants on.
Sharon Totty, 32, from Hartlepool, w
as the first walker back at 1.10am with all of the walkers having completed the trek by 3am.

She said: "I really enjoyed it. It was a good night apart from the rain at Seaton.

"The hospice cared for my granddad, Thomas Adams, so it's great to support them like this."

Every walker received a medal and enjoyed a hot breakfast courtesy of Asda and Warbutons.

Ms Mills added: "Our thanks go to everyone who was part of making this event such a success. This includes the walkers, the staff and volunteers, Tees and Hartlepool Yacht Club, Seaton Carew Golf Club, the marshals and all the emergency services. Everyone has been so helpful and encouraging to the walkers.

"We have been overwhelmed by the support we have received from all those who have taken part and we are very grateful for your personal contribution."

All money raised from the event will go towards maintaining the specialist palliative care and bereavement support services offered by the Wells Road-based hospice.