A CHARITY walk through Winchester's historic centre has returned for another successful year.

The Purple Night Walk 2024, organised by Winchester Hospice to raise funds for their services to those with terminal and severe illness, saw hundreds of purple-clad participants take on the six-kilometre route through the city.

Accompanied by a rendition of I'm Gonna Be (500 Miles) courtesy of the Moonroller Band, the walkers set off at twilight from The Pilgrim's School.

READ MORE: Winchester Hospice's Purple Night Walk returns to city

Some were there for support, others to remember loved ones who have passed away.

One walker, Laura Gray, 45, said: "My cousin was at the hospice and passed away recently. She didn’t want a funeral so we’ve come to celebrate Ellie here. For her family it just gave them a safe space where she was in good hands and they were also in good hands."

As the walkers went on, the Chronicle dropped in to The Wykeham Arms, where Purple Night Walk's sponsor Nony Kerr-Smiley, estate agent, was enjoying a drink with husband Sam.

She said: "[Winchester Hospice] is the most excellent place providing end-of-life care in a warm and bright environment with caring staff and a feeling of hope, and we are very proud to sponsor it."

Mrs Kerr-Smiley explained that her eponymous company has funded the hospice throughout the year, and especially this event.

Also present was last year's sponsor, John Leeson of Belgarum, another estate agent in Winchester.

SEE ALSO: Purple Night Walk returns to Winchester in aid of hospice care

The Moonroller Band were there too to help raise money and awareness for the cause.

Band leader Andy Martin, 71, said: "We’re a spin off of the Winchester uke jam and the hospice is our chosen charity. All the stuff we do, we don’t get paid for it – we do it for charity."

The walk ended at Winchester Cathedral where walkers were presented with medals.

For more information about Winchester Hospice, visit their website here.