Whopping £115,000 raised by walkers in Bridgnorth

Today organisers hailed the event, which involved an arduous 22-mile route, a huge success.

Rock bands lined the route and participants were even treated to an unexpected fly-past by the Red Arrows during the walk on Bank Holiday Monday.

Medals, certificates and prizes will be handed out to the winners of this year's Bridgnorth Walk on June 22.

Walk chairman Peter Davison today revealed the total raised, adding: "We want to thank to all who make this event the success that it is, including the volunteer helpers.

"This year we had music accompaniment with a jazz band at the Pheasant, Neenton and the duo, Guitar Cubed at Sunflower Cottage.

"Special mention should go to walkers Dana Power, who completed the course in a dragon costume, and Dave George, who completed the course with a huge rock strapped to his back.

"The organising committee would also like to thank all the considerate drivers and cyclists for their patience and understanding.

"Road safety is paramount and co-operation from other road users is essential.

"Some walkers will also have noticed a Red Arrows fly pass but unfortunately we can't claim the credit for organising this. They were literally flying past Bridgnorth on their way elsewhere."

The final numbers show 605 started the 22-mile senior walk with 593 completing the event, while all 144 juniors crossed the finish line on their shorter route.

No one charity is chosen to be the main beneficiary of the event, but walkers are asked to select a charity of choice. It is thought around 170 charities will benefit from the money raised.

Senior walkers look set to raise £100,000, juniors £10,000 and about £5,000 will be donated on behalf of helpers, making the total raised £115,000, which does not include Gift Aid. Three senior walkers raised more than £2,000, seven more than of £1,000 and five juniors topped the £500 mark.

Andy Rawlings from Ludlow was first passed the post, completing the 22 mile course in three hours and 30 minutes, closely followed by Andrew Simmons in second and Michael Payne in third.

Annie Annis was the first lady home, followed by Vicky Morris and Nichola Venables.

First male back along the amended 20 mile route for over 40s, which does not include reaching the Brown Clee summit, was Harold Hill, with Louise Norgrove the first lady.

The oldest walker was Mike Swales, who completed the amended route the day before his 80th birthday.

Fancy dress prizes were also awarded to Dana Power, who completed the entire course dressed as the Asthma UK mascot, Puff The Asthma Dragon, and Anna Poole and Alison Clarke, who were dressed as a salt pot and spanner, in aid of the Stroke Association.

The 2016 event will be even bigger as the walk celebrates its 50th anniversary year.

New committee members will be needed to organise the special event and for further information call Peter Davison on (01746) 768281.

The walk presentation evening will take place in St Mary's Church, from 7.30pm.