In pictures: Poignant walk across Portsmouth to remember loved ones raises £60,000 for charity

Rowans Hospice’s Shining Stars Walk returned on Saturday evening as 400 people took part during the walk of remembrance, community and fundraising – to ensure local families can continue to receive compassionate hospice care when they need it most.

The event saw people together at HMS Temeraire before setting off along Portsmouth’s waterfront at 7pm. People had a choice of four-mile or eight-mile routes as walkers passed some of the city’s best-known landmarks, including the Spinnaker Tower and HMS Warrior, illuminated against the night sky.

Behind every step of the Shining Stars Walk is remembering the difference Rowans Hospice makes to people and families facing life-limiting illness.

Mariana Verissimo, of Rowans Hospice, said: “Hospice care is about making every moment matter. It is there when someone needs expert care to manage their symptoms and pain, when families need someone to turn to, and when people need reassurance, dignity and compassion at one of the most difficult times in their lives.

“It can mean helping someone to be comfortable at home, supporting a family through an uncertain diagnosis, or simply being there to listen during precious final moments together.

“Every pound raised through Shining Stars Walk helps Rowans Hospice continue providing this vital care, free of charge, to local people and their families.

“Shining Stars Walk offers people the chance to walk in memory of someone special, show their support for local hospice care, or simply enjoy a unique evening with family and friends.”

Participants were able to dedicate a personalised star, which was then projected onto the Square Tower and Southsea Castle, creating a spectacular tribute to loved ones. Walkers also had exclusive access to HMS Warrior, where they lit candles, paused for reflection and remembered those who hold a special place in their hearts.

Rowans events lead, Lilly Griffiths, said: “It was really good, we had 400 people attend who went to HMS Warrior and put lantern bags there as a dedication on the decking and there was a big projection at the Square Tower and at Southsea castle.

“It was good to see the community come together and we raised £60,000 just from the walk. This is really helpful as we need to raise £10m a year and only get 22 per cent funding for this from the government so we need to raise another £7.8m a year.

“The walk is a huge thing for us and also helps people who have lost someone come together. We’re really happy with how it went and it was lovely to see everyone together. We had 100 volunteers that included people from businesses and rotary clubs. It was nice to see so many people help Rowans.”