Flashing bunny ears created a stream of pulsating lights as the women began the six-mile walk from Workington’s Tesco store on Friday night.

The crowd was full of energy, although numbers were down on the last three events and heavy clouds threatened a downpour.

Gillian Johnston, community fund-raiser for the hospice, said: “There was a fantastic atmosphere.”

CFM radio’s Robbie Dee hosted pre-walk events which began with singer Kerryann Wilson, followed by fancy dress and best decorated T-shirt competitions.

The crowd were then led in a warm-up by Lee Rothery, Mike Fullerton and John Connell, of InTrim Gym in Workington, and even Robbie joined in.

Janice Blackburn, owner of Hair Again on Mossbay Road, did the walk with 47 of her clients who pledged around £3,500.

She said: “I lost a few clients through cancer last year and I just wanted to give something back.”

Margaret Forsyth, 58, of High Harrington, who did the walk with daughters Jane, 27, and Claire Hill, 30, said: “The hospice do a good job and you just have to support them.”

Michelle Houston, 46, of Northumberland Street, Workington, said: “We wanted to do it to raise money for a good cause. You never know when you are going to need it.”

Lisa Bland, 43, of Chaucer Road, Workington, lost her husband Stephen to cancer two years ago and has had help from the hospice’s bereavement service.

She did the walk with her daughter Victoria, 20.

Victoria said: “You don’t realise how many people have come into contact with Hospice at Home until you see all these people here taking part.”

Around 70 marshals, mainly West Cumbrian Freemasons, ensured the safety of the women along the route and kept spirits high with words of encouragement.

Hospice chairman Terry Collins, president Lord Judd and chief executive Linda Hewitt stood at the finish line to thank every walker.

Mr Collins said: “It has been amazing seeing their enthusiasm and commitment. It has been an extraordinary night.

"We are extremely grateful for everyone’s generosity.”

He thanked everyone who involved in making the walk possible and the main walk sponsor Hunday Manor.