STORM Alex and changing Covid-19 restrictions did not stop the Wessex Cancer Trust's Starlit Trail.

More than 100 people stepped up to walk 5km through Winchester in the charity’s first live event since lockdown restrictions were announced in March.

The socially-distanced walk started and finished at The Square and took in the city streets and landmarks, including the river, High Street, Cathedral and College.

Walkers enjoyed entertainment by singers, musicians and circus act – and managed to raise £7,000.

Rachel Billsberry-Grass, who attended her first event as Wessex Cancer Trust’s CEO, said: "Ever since Covid-19 restrictions were announced, Wessex Cancer Trust’s incredible team of centre managers, counsellors, therapists, fundraisers and volunteers have pulled out all the stops to make sure we’re still here for anyone living with cancer.

"This is despite having to cancel or change a huge amount of our planned fundraising activities. Very few charities are hosting live events at the moment, but we were determined it would go ahead.

"I’m incredibly proud of my team and want to say a huge thank you to them and all the walkers who have raised an incredible amount of money despite everything Covid-19 and the weather has thrown at them."

Catherine Lawry, who organised the event, added: "There was such a lovely atmosphere at our first Starlit Trail last year and it was full of positivity. After everything we’ve been through this year, we felt it was important to get people together again.

"It was a meaningful evening because of everything it said about hope and how the power of community can change lives in the face of adversity."