CHESHAM'S Mayor Mohammad Fayyaz joined more than 600 charity walkers who helped raise £75,000 for a hospice charity in the middle of the night.

Cllr Fayyaz donned a pink t shirt to take part in the Hospice of St Francis's annual fundraising Midnight Walk on Saturday in memory of his friend Hamid Mukhtar Mirza and his cousin’s daughter-in-law, Asia Hussain.

The dad-of-five, who was cheered on by members of his family, said: "I really enjoyed the friendly, vibrant atmosphere and I hope I can raise lots of money for the Hospice."

Other teams from Chesham to take part in the event were Pink Fizz, Team Hart, Chesham Sainsbury’s and Neil and Elaine Dixon, who were looking for an event they could both do together in memory of their dads Ron and Terry.

The Dixons, from Hazelwood Close, completed the 11 mile course in three hours - despite Neil suffering a very painful toe.

"Nothing was going to stop me walking," said the 52-year-old facilities manager at the Chiltern Hills Academy in Chartridge Lane. "We both really enjoyed the whole evening, from the warm up, to the bacon roll and tea at the end. All the volunteers were fantastic, as were the walkers.

"We’ve raised nearly £500 now, and for a brilliant cause – we’re looking forward to next year already, God willing."

Holby City actress Rosie Marcel, pictured above with Cllr Fayyaz, set the 600 walkers on their way after first guiding them through a warm-up.

She said: "Having had a good friend who received hospice care, I know how important hospices are and it’s just fantastic to see so many people here tonight, looking very pretty in pink and showing true allegiance to this fantastic local charity.

"Well done everyone, you’re all amazing."