St Clare Hospice 'Winter Walkies'

About 279 people and dozens of dogs took part in the St Clare Hospice 'Winter Walkies'

The walkers braved the cold weather on Sunday morning as they followed a 5km route from the hospice in Hastingwood Road, Hastingwood.

Their efforts look set to have raised about £3,500 for the charity but organisers hope this will increase to £5,000 when sponsorship is paid in.

Many of the dogs were dressed warm for the occasion with a prize going to the best dressed canine ('Honey', owned by Lia Greathead, from Harlow), while their owners were judged for the best wellies competition (won by Kate Peacock, from Harlow).

The walkers returned to the hospice for a warming cup of tea or coffee while there were dog treats and a special medal for each of the canine finishers.

There was also a homemade cake stall and a raffle with many canine-related prizes up for grabs.

The hospice's events fundraiser, Tracy Stratford, said:  "Despite it being a misty cold morning we were thrilled at how many people came along to join us for Winter Walkies.

"It was great seeing so many people make an effort with their footwear for our 'Best Wellies' competition and also the dogs in their outfits for the 'Best Dog competition'.

Thank you so much to everyone who helped us raise over £3,500 for our patients.  The money will make a valuable difference."



Dogs set off for their 5km sponsored walk



Honey won the prize for the best dressed dog.



Catherine Stacey with Scooby Doo, who raised £25 in sponsorship


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