1,161 people lit up the streets of Cheltenham on Saturday, October 18, walking in celebration and remembrance for Sue Ryder's annual Starlight Hike.

The event brought together families, friends and colleagues to walk in memory of loved ones, while expecting to raise a record breaking £118,000 for the national healthcare and bereavement charity.

Beginning at Ashley Manor Preparatory School, with many embracing the Sue Ryder Starlight Hike spirit with glitter, neon, and glow-in-the-dark accessories, the evening began with live music from two amazing choirs and a high energy warm-up group before participants set off at 8pm along the illuminated paths.

Along the way, participants had the opportunity to pass through the beautifully lit, tranquil grounds of Sue Ryder Leckhampton Court Hospice, where they were able to place a star in memory of someone special.

This year's hike also featured a sustainability initiative, partnering with local hospice supporters Printwaste to recycle, inviting participants to donate pre-loved clothing at the on-site 'donation station', supporting Sue Ryder's retail shops and reducing waste.

At the finish line, walkers were presented with medals to mark their achievement. The event will help Sue Ryder continue to deliver expert palliative and bereavement support through services like Sue Ryder Leckhampton Court Hospice in Cheltenham.

Matt Reay, community fundraising manager at Sue Ryder Leckhampton Court Hospice, said: "This year's Sue Ryder Starlight Hike Cheltenham was a fantastic evening - full of energy, reflection and community spirit. It's always humbling to see so many people come together to make such a special event possible, celebrate and remember loved ones and support Sue Ryder's care. Every step taken really does help ensure we can continue to be there when it matters most.

"We are also incredibly grateful to the dedicated army of volunteers who gave their time so generously, as well as the many local businesses who offered their support. A very special and heartfelt thank you goes to our friends and headline sponsors, Capita, whose unwavering partnership since 2017 has helped us deliver this meaningful event year after year and raise over £704,000 to support our care."

Jo Wynn, from Capita, said: "Our partnership with Sue Ryder is rooted in the personal experience of many of our local Capita colleagues, who have seen first-hand the difference the charity makes to people at the end of their lives and to those closest to them. For any business thinking of building a partnership with a local charity, you can make a real difference with a relatively modest contribution.

"Our sponsorship has helped Sue Ryder grow the event year on year, meaning it's now one of their flagship annual fundraisers. We're stepping down as sponsor after eight fantastic years but will look forward to continuing to take part as the Sue Ryder Starlight Hike goes from strength to strength."

Sue Ryder's hospice teams supported more than 8,700 people last year, both in specialist centres and in their own homes. Events like Sue Ryder Starlight Hike Cheltenham help ensure that no one has to face death or grief alone.