A charity walk across north Herts has raised an incredible £25k for two hospices in our area.

The Fountain to Fountain Hike saw walkers from across North and East Hertfordshire collecting the incredible amount for two local hospices, on Sunday, July 11, by taking part in a brand-new walking challenge between our two garden cities.

Around 170 people took part in the inaugural 18-mile Fountain to Fountain Hike, hosted by Garden House Hospice Care and Welwyn Garden City-based Isabel Hospice.

The walk started at Broadway Gardens in Letchworth Garden City and took participants through beautiful Hertfordshire countryside, including the grounds of Knebworth House, to the Coronation Fountain in Welwyn Garden City.

Richard Harbon, Head of Events at Garden House Hospice Care said: "Our first Fountain to Fountain Hike was a great success and attracted individuals, family groups and work colleagues from across North and East Hertfordshire.

"There was a great atmosphere throughout the day with people delighted to be out exploring our countryside route and the weather proved perfect for walking too.

"Many of our participants were hiking in memory of loved ones and we hope the day was special for them, allowing the opportunity to remember them fondly.

"As well as many successfully fulfilling a personal challenge by taking part, the funds they have raised will enable us to continue our vital care in our communities."

Each Hospice provides free end-of-life care to their local communities with a combined population of over half a million people.

Garden House Hospice Care provides a wide range of services for patients, their carers, and families facing a life limiting illness.

Free specialist palliative care is provided to over 900 adults a year living with advanced cancer, motor neurone disease or other life limiting illness in our community of 230,000 people in North Hertfordshire including Hitchin, Stevenage and surrounding towns and villages of Central Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire.

Adam Brockett, Head of Community & Events at Isabel Hospice, added: "It was great to welcome so many people to our Fountain to Fountain Hike, in partnership with our friends at Garden House Hospice Care.

"One thing that struck us throughout the day was how nice it was to hear people's personal connections to Isabel Hospice and the stories and loved ones who inspired people to take part.

"Every step taken and every pound raised by each walker will be directly helping their chosen Hospice to continue to support patients and their families in our local communities."

He added, "Events such as these could not take place without the help and support of a large number of people. These include Hermit of Redcoats, The Plume of Feathers, North Herts District Council, Welwyn & Hatfield District Council, Country Court Care Homes, Croudace Homes, Tesco Hertford, Waitrose Welwyn Garden City and Knebworth House. We'd also like to say a huge thank you to our fantastic supporters and volunteers from both Hospices."

The Fountain to Fountain Hike will return in 2022 with entry details available soon from both Hospices.