The streets of Swindon were lit up in celebration on Saturday, as a record-breaking number of participants marched through the town in their brightest clothes.

The 16th Starlight Walk, which was sponsored by Imagine Cruising, has raised over £110,000 for Prospect Hospice after walkers took on new 10k and 15k illuminated routes on Saturday evening, June 29.

This year's event saw over 760 participants who each chose to take on the challenge for various personal reasons, as well as The Ministry of Samba band which set the festive tone with the band's infectious energy.

But for those who were particularly moved by the event and needed a moment of quiet reflection, a remembrance area was set up in the Town Gardens as a space to honour and remember loved ones.

Lucy Adams was just one of this year's participants who walked in memory of her grandmother who was cared for by Prospect Hospice.

This year's event saw a record-breaking turnoutThis year's event saw a record-breaking turnout (Image: Prospect Hospice)

"This was my first time joining the Starlight Walk and it was such an amazing experience," she said.

"The route was beautiful, the Samba band got everyone in high spirits and the remembrance area was a touching tribute. I’m already looking forward to next year’s walk."

Jeremy Lune, CEO at Prospect Hospice, added: “We are absolutely blown away with the turnout and the incredible amount raised during this year’s Starlight Walk.

"The community’s support has been overwhelming, and every step taken by our walkers helps us to provide vital care and support to people living with a terminal illness.

"A heartfelt thank you to everyone involved – from participants to volunteers and sponsors – for making this night so special.” 

An area of remembrance was set up in the Town GardensAn area of remembrance was set up in the Town Gardens (Image: Prospect Hospice)

Prospect Hospice is a charity providing end-of-life care to people 24 hours a day, seven days a week, for over 300,000 people across Swindon, northeast Wiltshire, and parts of Gloucestershire.

The hospice provides all its services free of charge to patients and this is only made possible by community donations, which raise 75 per cent of the £8 million it costs each year to operate. 

Patient support is delivered in a variety of ways, tailored to the needs of the individual and specialist teams provide clinical, emotional and practical support to patients and their families delivered at the hospice in Wroughton, Swindon, and in people’s homes.

Fundraising events like the Starlight Walk are essential for raising the funds that Prospect Hospice needs to continue operating.