Over 1,800 people participated the Midlands' largest Moonlight Walk in Warwick on Friday (17 April) kicked off by distinguished actor David Bradley.

Walkers gathered at Warwick Castle to begin the Moonlight Walk, opting for either the 10km or 5km route, in support of end-of-life charity The Myton Hospices.

This year's walk was launched with the support of actor, David Bradley, well-known for his role as Argus Filch in the Harry Potter movies.

Speaking to Nub News, Bradley shared:"I am helping to launch the sponsored walk. Some people are doing 5k and some are doing 10 and I am here to watch and say a few words and play the age card by helping out really.

"I have been surrounded by so many wonderful people, many who have pictures and name tags on their shirts to show who they are sponsoring, many of whom are family members they have lost.

He continued: "I think it is a great way to celebrate someone's life."

David added his involvement with the hospice and its work is recent, however he hopes to attend and support more of its events in the future.

In his public speech to those attending the event, Bradley also shared: "I wasn't expecting to see this many people, but considering that we are not subject to a lot of optimistic news on various media outlets, it is so inspiring and heartwarming to look out on all these people, giving your time, your energy and your love, which is going to make a lot of difference to people's lives and people's memories.

"I hope you realise the wonderful work you and the hospice are doing and for me, it's an honour to a part of this celebration."

Warming up ahead of the walk, attendees enjoyed live music from artist Letitia George, dancing to popular hits such as 'Show me love' and 'Proud Mary.'

There was also other entertainment provided including a fire performer.

At 6.20pm, ahead of the 10km, Chair of Trustees at The Myton Hospice, Sarah Faulkner, took to the stage, alongside David Bradley.

Speaking of the importance of the event, Faulkner shared: "Many of you today will be walking for your loved ones, and that is really important to us, as well as to you. So, let us carry their memory with us as together we raise money and take part in this special moonlight walk."

Sarah also highlighted the importance of fundraising in keeping the charity going, sharing that less than 20 percent of funding for The Myton Hospices comes from the government, meaning the charity has to raise over a million pounds a month to keep the services free of charge.

"Your support is absolutely crucial in protecting our vital services and supporting people at their most vulnerable, across Coventry and Warwickshire" shared Sarah.

In a surprise for Bradley, who was also celebrating his 84th birthday, walkers and volunteers collectively sang 'happy birthday' to him.

"You have made a happy man very old," joked Bradley, highlighting this would be a special moment he would 'never forget.'

Just before the walk, participants followed a fabulous Zumba warm-up to get themselves ready.

Around 7.30pm, the 10km walkers set off through the castle grounds, and into Warwick town centre.

Around £242,000 was raised for The Myton Hospices, prior to the walkers even setting off!

Over £15 million is needed every year for the charity to provide its services free of charge to patients and their loved ones.

Melanie, who was walking the 10km with her children, in memory of her late mother who experienced end-of-life care from the Myton Hospice team shared: "After everything we experienced with my mum, we knew we wanted to give something back.

"The care and support we received as a family from the team at Myton Hospices was incredible, it made such a difficult time that little bit easier."

Her daughter, Sofia, aged 19, added that taking part also carried a personal meaning after their loss.

When asked if she had done much preparation for the walk, Sofia shared: "We haven't done much no, but I'm on my feet a lot at work, so I think that counts!"

The family were walking for Sue's Army, which you can find out more about, and donate to here.

To find out more about The Myton Hospices and the work done by the charity visit here.