Hundreds of children and families from across Greater Manchester gathered to take part in two special afternoons of fundraising for St Ann’s Hospice.

The two Parade in the Park events, which were held in Wythenshawe Park and Parr Fold Park in Walkden, saw children of all ages come together to enjoy a 1km sponsored walk route.

Fran Wilson, event organiser from the hospice, explained: “We were thrilled to see so many people turn out to help us raise money for the local patients we care for.

“Many of the children who took part in the parades were walking to remember someone special, and it was amazing to see everyone joining together for such a positive reason.

“We had a dedicated memory area on each of the walks where those taking part could tie a ribbon with a message to a loved one if they chose to do so, and it was extremely moving to see these all set out on the day.”

Participants enjoyed a range of activities, and were visited by a host of children’s characters, with many walkers also choosing to wear fancy dress for the parade.

Fran added: “Though these were primarily walks to remember loved ones, they were also really fun events with lots of laughter and energy.

“We can’t wait to see how much has been raised so would ask any walkers to send in their sponsorship money as soon as possible so we can find out the grand total.”

All money raised from the two sponsored walks will go to St Ann’s to help them to continue providing care to the thousands of local patients they support.