HUNDREDS of glowing girls lit up the streets of Hereford during one of the city’s brightest fundraisers.

Last Friday’s Venus Glow 10K Walk saw almost 800 women raise about £40,000 for St Michael’s Hospice.

Walkers were also given the chance to remember loved ones by signing a Memory Wall on the Bishop’s Meadow.

Among those entering was a team from Ross-on-Wye-based firm Dawleys, who have already raised over £700 for their hospice this year.

“It's been an amazing atmosphere. Lots of fun and a great bonding session with the team,” said Dawleys account executive, Leigh-Ann Beard.

“Venus is a great way to say ‘thank you’ to St Michael's for all the care they gave my family when my nan died at the Hospice seven years ago.

“The memory wall was a brilliant idea – it was lovely to see everyone's memories lit up.”

This was the ninth Venus walk since the event first launched in 2008.

Fundraisers were once again encouraged to have their faces and t-shirts emblazoned with messages dedicated to loved ones.

After setting-off from the Point 4 on Venns Lane, the route went along Ledbury Road into the centre of Hereford.

Walkers then passed the Cathedral, crossed the Old Bridge and returned to town via the Castle Green before heading along Edgar Street, Holmer Road and Roman Road on their way back to the Point 4.

Matt Ashcroft, events manager at the hospice, said: "It was a wonderful night, full of colour, fun and laughter.

"You can never tire of seeing hundreds of women who are having a great time while lighting up the night sky.

"Every year, we are blown away by people’s support for this event, and the hospice in general.

"We’d like to thank the many volunteers and local businesses who make this event possible."