HUNDREDS of walkers trekked over the Malvern Hills to raise thousands of pounds for charity.

Walks took place on both Saturday and Sunday, one organised by St Richard's Hospice and the other by the Malvern Hills Lions Club.

The St Richard's Walk on Saturday attracted more than 500 walkers and organisers hope the event will raise £26,000 for the hospice.

"It was our 23rd Malvern Hills Walk and all the walkers were happy and smiling. The day went really well," said fundraising assistant Joanna Street.

"We had better weather than last year when it was very grey and wet. We had both blue skies and sunshine and heavy showers but nothing to dampen people's good spirits."

Some walkers opted for an 11-mile route, others for two and five-mile routes. The Malvern Sea Cadets helped out by putting up marquees and serving refreshments.

"We'd like to thank everyone involved in the walk for helping us to continue caring for patients," said Miss Street.

The Lions walk has been running for 31 years, raising thousands split between the club's chosen charity and various local good causes. This year the Lions charity is Macmillan Cancer Support.

The walk took place in glorious sunshine on Sunday with more than 180 walkers following a nine-mile route from Castlemorton to Tank Quarry, with refreshments provided along the route.

Walk co-ordinator Roger Orgill said:"The weather was wonderful and we had a good turn-out. The walkers really enjoyed themselves. We're very grateful to all of them."

The walk attracted Scouts, Cubs and Beavers and groups of colleagues from local businesses, including estate agents, medical centre staff and hairdressers, as well as lots of families and walkers with dogs. Organisers hope to raise at least £5,000.