MANORLANDS’ annual Starlight Hike was a sparkling success.

More than 650 people took part in aid of the Oxenhope Sue Ryder hospice.

Organisers hope over £50,000 will be raised once all sponsorship money has been collected.

Saturday's hike, sponsored by Stirk Lambert and Co Accountants, followed a ten-kilometre route through Worth Valley villages.

A Starlight Express steam train provided by the Keighley & Worth Valley Railway took participants from Oxenhope Railway Station to Oakworth, where the marshalled walk began.

Walkers passed through the grounds of the hospice, where they could post messages in memory of loved ones on a special wall. A team of Manorlands healthcare workers was among those that took part in the hike, and staff and volunteers from the hospice’s family support team were on hand.

Hospice senior fundraiser and event lead, Hayley Ibbotson, said it was a “fantastic” night.

“It was a massive success – a really nice event,” she added.

“Everyone seemed to enjoy it.

“The weather was kind to us too, which makes a big difference.

“There is a real sense of community and togetherness on the Starlight Hike, with a lot of people taking part to remember loved ones they’ve lost. Many walkers have dedications on their T-shirts.

“The walk through the grounds and the chance to post messages really helps bring home why we are there and we get a lot of positive feedback.

“I would like to say a big thank-you to everybody who supported the event.

“Special thanks go to Stirk Lambert and Co for its sponsorship, the Keighley & Worth Valley Railway for once again providing a train and all the wonderful volunteers and marshals for their help on the night – without them, the hike – which has become a real flagship event for the hospice – just wouldn’t happen.

“And we’re so grateful to everyone who collected sponsorship to reach the grand total.

“The funds raised are essential to the hospice, ensuring we can continue to be there for patients and their loved ones when they need us the most. We can’t thank everyone enough for their generosity.”

Manorlands supports patients with life-limiting illnesses and their families at the hospice and in the community, across an area covering Craven, Airedale and Wharfedale as well as parts of Bradford.

All services are free to patients and their loved ones, but it costs £9,000 a day to keep the hospice doors open. Only a small part of the cost is covered by statutory funds.