HUNDREDS of women brightened the streets of Hereford during a midnight walk in aid of St Michael’s Hospice.

The popular Venus 10K Midnight Walk saw 830 pink-clad women take over parts of the city in the early hours of Saturday morning.

The walk coincided with St Michael’s 30th ‘Pearl’ anniversary, with walkers being invited to wear strings of pearls with their pink t-shirts.

Those walking in memory of a loved one were able to light a candle in a memory bag or write a message on a memory tree which were both outside the Cathedral.

“This year is the first time I have taken part in Venus, and it has been amazing,” said Rachel Dodd, who took part in memory of her mother, Hazel Dodd, who died at the hospice last month.

Meanwhile, one brave woman is taking part in her own walk on Sunday.

Marie-Lou Evans, from Canon Pyon, has taken part in the midnight walk numerous times in the past few years but was unable to join the other fundraisers this year as she underwent chemotherapy treatment for breast cancer a few days beforehand.

“I knew I would be feeling too weak to take part, and this year it is especially important," said the 51 year-old.

“I also don’t want to let down the people who have sponsored me, so I will do my own Venus Walk on Sunday at 10.30am. I don’t care how long it takes, I’m going to do it.”

Anyone wishing to join her should call the hospice on 01432 851000.