A RECORD number of men put on their running sporting shoes for the Bath Men’s Walk in aid of Bath Rugby Foundation and Dorothy House last Saturday.

Nearly 600 participants walked the fourth edition of the eight-mile walk, starting at Dorothy House in Winsley and finishing at Bath Rugby’s stadium the Rec, which raised more than £45,000.

ITV weatherman, Bob Crampton, got the walkers off on their way and after the walk, the hikers were greeted with a pie and a pint at the ground.

Emily Knight from Dorothy House Hospice Care said: “This is our fourth year of the Men’s Walk, but our 40th year as your local hospice! Our birthday year is off to a great start and we’re thrilled that hundreds of chaps turned out to walk the eight mile scenic route – all to raise money for two fantastic charities.”

Bath Rugby Foundation general manager, Mandy Gardner said: “Bath Rugby Foundation are hugely grateful to everyone who donned their walking boots to raise funds for us, and for Dorothy House.

"This money will allow us to continue to work with some of the most vulnerable people in our local community.”

Simon Holdsworth, managing partner of main event sponsors Thrings and a member of the firm’s walking team, added: “The Men’s Walk raises funds for two fantastic charities which change the lives of so many people in our local community.

“While we are long-time supporters of both organisations, we are also pleased to have fielded our largest-ever team of walkers, all of whom thoroughly enjoyed hiking through the beautiful countryside, the camaraderie of their fellow walkers and a richly deserved pie and a pint at the Rec.”