IN VIDEO and PICTURES: Wet weather fails to dampen spirits at lantern walk
It may have been wet, and it was certainly cold, but that did not stop hundreds of men, women and children turning out for a special fundraiser.
The annual lantern walk at Walsall Arboretum in aid of Acorns Children's Hospice provided plenty of colour as more than 300 walkers carried orange paper lamps which were lit as dusk fell.
This year pride of place was given to an extra-large lantern that had been decorated by children at the hospice during an arts and crafts session.
The group of hardy walkers set off around the lake, following either a short or longer route, some wearing fancy dress, many donning Christmas hats and tinsel, and all wrapped up well against the November chill.
Organisers hailed the day a great success and thanked everyone who turned out for taking part.
Abi Floyd, fundraising manager at Acorns, said the sight of so many lighted lanterns helped create a 'fantastic' atmosphere at the finish line.
She said: "It was great to see so many people braving the weather on the day, whether walking or volunteering, who all helped make the event a wonderful success.
"Fundraising events like these help raise the money we need to provide our services, and if it wasn't for people's support and sponsorship for taking part in events like the lantern walk, we simply wouldn't be able to continue running our hospices and care network."
It is hoped the event, sponsored by First Personnel, will raise around £25,000. helping considerably towards Acorns' yearly £9 million running costs across its three hospices.
Walkers chose between a 5km stroll within the grounds of the arboretum or a 12km walk via the hospice in Walstead Road, Walsall.
Entertainment at the arboretum included live music, face painting, arts and crafts stalls and refreshments.
Lantern events have also been held in Birmingham and Worcester.
