MORE than 200 women who braved the rain to take part in a charity’s midnight walk have been thanked for their efforts.

The sixth annual St Teresa’s Hospice Midnight Walk took place on Friday, May 17, around South Park, in Darlington.

On arrival, everyone received a goody bag containing various glowing goodies, before taking part in a warm-up led by members of the fire service and Darlington FC.

As midnight approached, Darlington mayor Charles Johnson and hospice director Jane Bradshaw led the crowd in a countdown and the walk got under way amid a volley of confetti.

The walk was marshalled by personnel from Catterick Garrison, volunteers from Darlington Rotary Club and staff and volunteers from the hospice.

Despite the inclement weather, almost all the people who registered for the event turned out to support the charity, with some people even registering on the night! The resilient walkers greatly enjoyed the event, and there was considerable merriment afterward as everyone enjoyed a celebratory bacon bun!

The walk is expected to raise thousands of pounds for St Teresa’s Hospice.

Hospice Director Jane Bradshaw said: “The Midnight Walk is a fantastic girls’ night out, and this year has been no exception.

“We’d like to thank Darlington Borough Council and the South Park rangers for their support, as well as our dedicated volunteers, and A-one+, Securitas and Serco for donating their time and resources to help make this event so special.

“Finally, a massive thank you to our Midnight Walk Stars - the hundreds of women who have worked so hard to raise sponsorship in aid of St Teresa’s Hospice.”