WALKERS took to Upton Country Park in Poole to fundraise for University Hopsital’s Dorset with many dressing up for the event.

Choosing to walk either 3km, 5km, or 10km, participants met at 10.30am on September 28 to get ready for UHD’s Walk for Wards event.

Among the historic grounds of Upton House, walkers fundraised for a specific ward or department within UHD.

While dress-up was optional, several appeared to the event in a range of different outfits which included where’s wally and the avengers.

Brought forward from October this year, the decision was made “in the hope from glorious weather to enjoy the live music, entertainment, stalls and refreshments.”

Once walkers completed their walk, each was treated to two slices of pizza served by Ligouris Woodfire Pizzas.

Royal Bournemouth Hospital and Poole Hospital staff took part in the event which included members of the addiction care and treatment team.

Many walkers had made the decision to fundraise for the BEACH appeal to help fund for the hospital’s new beach building which is set to open in Spring 2025.

Last year, 330 people raised £24,000 for UHD through the event and it is hoped the event can raise even more this year.