It was dry, sunny and not too hot at the edge of Ullswater on Saturday.

So it was ideal weather for walking.

And 103 people put their best foot forward for a good cause as they took part in this year’s major fundraiser for Hospice at Home Carlisle & North Lakeland.

The walkers raised money as well as blisters for the charity, which provides end of life care for people in their own homes.

Donations and sponsorship money are still coming in but charity bosses hope the final total will again be around £25,000.

Julie Blundell, head of income generation and marketing with Hospice at Home, explained that the event had a theme every year, and this year’s was named “Step up to the Plate” – as the walkers were sustained by food and drink provided by local businesses.

They set off from Pooley Bridge, following a 21-mile route anticlockwise around the lake – after a breakfast donated by Starfruits and Traybakes.

There was also an alternative shorter route to ensure the event was open to all abilities.

At different points there were Gingerbread Bridge biscuits from Granny Dowbekins, sausage rolls from Burbushes, an ice cream from Abbott Lodge Jersey Ice Cream and vegetable soup and bread supplied by the Inn on the Lake.

There were canapés from Pete Sidwell Keswick Cookery School, homemade cakes by Lynn, and Kendal Mint cake from Romney’s.

And at the finish line back at Pooley Bridge walkers were welcomed by a celebratory gin and tonic from Chestnut House, a hot meal prepared by Brian Humes Catering Service with supplies from Pioneer and Bells, and fudge from the Toffee Shop.

There were participants on four legs as well as those on two, including local celebrity springer spaniels Max, Paddy and Harry with their owner Kerry Irving.

Dog treats were laid on for them by Arcade Pet Store in Penrith.

“In previous years we have had a midnight walk, a dawn walk, a sunflower stroll, a bunny run and a Santa dash,” Julie said.

“Step up to the Plate was new for 2019.”

She added: “We were very fortunate with the weather.

“It was a lovely day, and perfect conditions for walking.

“No waterproofs were needed.”

The event was sponsored by architects Unwin Jones Partnership, who also entered a team of walkers.

Julie said: “Their financial support has meant all the funds raised can be allocated solely to provide care for patients and their families.”

Raising money and awareness will continue throughout the summer, she added.

“We are going to have a stall at Kendal Calling music festival and at all the

various county agricultural shows.

“Then in October we will be launching a ‘PJ party’.”

Supporters are being urged to wear their pyjamas or other nightwear on Friday, October 18 – whether they are going to work or spending the day at home.

Hospice at Home covers an area of more than 1,500 square miles and receives around 700 new patient referrals every year,.

So it needs to raise at least £18,000 each week to keep running.

Anyone interested in raising funds or volunteering or who would like to find out more should visit www.hospiceathome.co.uk or phone 01768 210719.