MORE than 100 people turned out for a special charity walk in Malvern.

More than 100 participants competed in the annual Mayor's Peaks Challenge in Malvern on Saturday, May 4 for what is an organised charity walk to help raise funds for St Richard’s Hospice.

This year's event attracted 89 people for the long walk of 18 kilometres over the Malvern Hills, with another 39 doing the shorter nine kilometre walk.

The competitors walked in the sunshine on what proved to be one of the warmest days of the year so far with the Mayor, Cllr Clive Hooper, present in Priory Park to congratulate them as they finished and present each of the walkers with certificates of achievement.

There was also entertainment on hand in the park throughout the afternoon, with performances from the Malvern Hills District Brass Band, the Amelia K Academy dance troupe, and the popular i-singers supporting the charitable event.

"I was immensely impressed with how well the walkers managed," said Cllr Hooper.

"We had some sprightly competitors taking part in their 80s, but whether young or old, all the splendid participants seemed to have enjoyed themselves.

"I was absolutely delighted that we had good weather for a change and I am sure this added to everyone's enjoyment of all the excellent entertainment that took place in Priory Park. 

"It was so nice that the walkers were able to sit and relax after their exertions if they wanted to, and enjoy the sunshine and music."

The Major also thanked the staff from Malvern Town Council for all the work that had gone into planning and organising the event so efficiently, from making sure that the routes were carefully marked and with marshals on hand to direct the walkers, and orchestrating the entertainments in Priory Park.

Cllr Hooper is hopeful that all proceeds from the entry fees, the raffle and the collections taken in Priory Park from the event would be able to raise £3000 for his charity, St Richard's Hospice.