PEOPLE laced up their walking boots for this year’s Weldmar six-mile stroll between Portland and Weymouth.

More than 30 people took part in the March in March event, which was held yesterday from 1pm and started and finished at the Osprey Leisure Centre on Portland.

This is the second year the Weldmar Hospicecare Trust has run the walking fundraiser.

Last year walkers faced torrential rain as they marched in aid of charity.

This year, participants were welcomed by sunny weather and clear skies as they continued past Portland Castle and the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy, before hiking along Portland Beach Road and reaching the Rodwell Trail.

Mark Howlett, Weldmar’s Community Fundraiser for south Dorset, said there was a great turn out for the event.

He added: “We had 35 people sign up in total for the march so a huge thank you to them and Osprey Leisure Centre for their support.

“Good weather welcomed this year’s family, pram and dog-friendly walk and every penny raised for Weldmar makes such a difference.

“Without the support from people at events like this it would be very difficult for us to do the work that we do.”

Portland resident Bev Gould said she regularly takes part in Weldmar’s midnight walk but was inspired to take part in the march because she wanted to do something extra for the charity.

Weymouth resident Sarah Rolston said: “This is the first year I’ve taken part in the March walk.

“My dad was cared for by Weldmar before he died in 2012 so the charity is a cause close to my family’s hearts.”

Wyke Regis walker Paul Shepherd took part in the walk with wife Andrea.

He said: “It was fantastic weather for the walk which is a great idea for a very worthy cause.”