HUNDREDS began British Summertime with a walk through Herefordshire’s beautiful countryside in support of a county charity.

The St Michael’s Hospice Big Spring Walk raised more than £12,000 for the Bartestree-based charity which provides palliative and end-of-life care across Herefordshire and beyond.

Despite overcast conditions, over 300 people of all ages, plus an impressive array of dogs, gathered beside the River Wye at Hereford Rowing Club before setting off on their choice of three circular routes – 5.5k, 12.5k and 17.5k - through Breinton and the surrounding area.

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“It was great to see so many people turn out on a drizzly day,” said Carol Condie, who completed the 12.5K route.

“It was a great walk, very well organised and lots of fun was had with friends. I will definitely be doing it again next year.”

On their return, walkers were treated to an entertaining display from the Paws for Thought dog display team.

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“Everyone at St Michael’s would like to thank all walkers, our fantastic team of supporters who helped marshal, plus our sponsors Two Farmers crisps for helping make this such an enjoyable day,” said Natasha Walshe, Events and Community Fundraiser at St Michael’s Hospice.

“We hope everyone had a great time exploring Herefordshire’s beautiful countryside, and supporting St Michael’s Hospice at the same time. Money raised through events such as the Big Spring Walk is vital to St Michael’s as it goes directly towards providing care to those who need it across our community.”

The Big Spring Walk was the first in the hospice's 2023 calendar. It comes ahead of a busy spring with a Hospice Barbarians rugby side taking on Luctonians on Saturday, April 29, before RUN Hereford, the Plant Fair and the Open Gardens season at The Whittern in Lyonshall take place in May.

A full list of the events can be found here.