HUNDREDS of people gathered in a North East park to remember lost loved ones and raise money for charity.

A half-moon illuminated South Park, in Darlington, as more than 200 people took part in the Moonlight and Memories Walk, in aid of St Teresa’s Hospice – many using the event to keep the memory of their loved ones alive.

Among the participants was Kim Jordan, walking alongside her father-in-law, Phillip, and her young daughter, Ariana. Together, they took each step in memory of Phillip’s late wife, Maria, who was cared for by the hospice earlier this year.

The Jordan family took part in memory of Maria Jordan. From left: Ariana, Kim, and PhillipThe Jordan family took part in memory of Maria Jordan. From left: Ariana, Kim, and Phillip (Image: Chris Barron)

(Image: Chris Barron)

Kim said: “My mother-in-law went into the hospice back in May, and when we saw the Walk being advertised, we just thought that we’d love to raise money in her memory.”

By the evening of the event, the family had already raised £235 for St Teresa’s Hospice in a heartfelt tribute to Maria. “The care the hospice provides – it's not just for the patients, but for the entire family,” Kim added. “I have no words for how good it is."

The event was sponsored by footwear retailer Charles Clinkard, and to ensure the safety of everyone involved, volunteer marshals from Darlington Rotary Club – long-time supporters of hospice events – stood watch along the route.

Volunteers from Darlington Rotary Club lined the route to guide walkersVolunteers from Darlington Rotary Club lined the route to guide walkers (Image: Chris Barron)

Nicola Myers, Chief Executive of St Teresa’s Hospice, said: “The Moonlight and Memories Walk is always deeply moving because it unites so many people who’ve been touched by the care we provide.

“We’re incredibly grateful to all our volunteers, sponsors, and supporters, including Charles Clinkard, Darlington Rotary Club, Darlington Building Society, and Newcastle Building Society, who have helped make this event a success.

The event relied on the support of volunteersThe event relied on the support of volunteers (Image: Chris Barron)

“We also want to highlight – pun intended – the contribution of Total Rental Solutions, which provided the lighting for the walk, and Darlington Borough Council for the use of the park.

“But most of all, thank you to every single one of our wonderful walkers—you’re the heart of this event.”