Fundraisers from Kingsteignton and Abbotskerswell were among1,6500 people who joined the eight-mile sponsored Sleep Walk for Rowcroft Hospice.

The event – held for the first time since 2022 - raised £185,000 to support local patients and their families.

The route took the walkers along Torquay and Paignton seafronts to Goodrington, via Roundham Head where they paused for a moment of reflection. After a mocktail and a treat at the Cantina in Goodrington, they walked back to the Cantina in Torquay for the finish-line celebration.

Cathy Carey and her friends Jayne, Trish, Rachel and Samantha walked as a team of five from the Chordettes Acappella Chorus, based in Abbotskerswell.

Cathy said: “Harmony singing is all about listening to and supporting each other, and the whole is so much greater than the individual parts.

“The Sleep Walk has that same feeling – an instant sense of camaraderie with everyone being here for the same reason – to raise crucial funds for the hospice.

“It feels bittersweet of course – it sparks fantastic memories of people who have passed away, but you also know you’re helping Rowcroft support more local families in need.”

Andrea Loader, 62 from Kingsteignton, walked with family and friends in memory of her mum Sheila Chambers, who died in Rowcroft Hospice in October 2025 aged 85.

She said: “I can only describe Rowcroft Hospice and its staff as a little piece of ‘heaven on earth’ run by earth angels.

“They did the most amazing, wonderful job of looking after my mum until she departed for heaven.

“The Sleep Walk today has been absolutely brilliant! Everybody’s been cheering each other on, and it’s just been wonderful being here and raising money for such a fabulous hospice.”

Rachel Haime, Events Fundraiser at Rowcroft Hospice, has thanked all those who took part, along with sponsors and supporters at the event - including Torbay Council who ‘lit up the Bay in purple in honour of Rowcroft’.