A Halloween run was a 'spook-tacular success' after raising nearly £4,000 for a hospice.

The Spooky Sprint, organised by St Richard’s Hospice, saw 146 runners take on a 5K or 10K race in Norton on Sunday (October 27).

The event raised £3,945, after costs, for the hospice’s care for patients with an incurable illness, their loved ones, and bereaved people.

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Sofia Gunster, hospice events and community fundraising lead, said: "We had a fantastic time on Sunday; the weather was glorious and we saw some ghoulishly good costumes.

"This event was a real team effort and we are grateful to everyone who took part and helped make it a success for our care.

"The funds raised by the Spooky Sprint will help us continue to be there for patients and their loved ones when they need us most."

Open to families, groups, and runners of all abilities, the sprint began at Norton Parish Hall.

The route saw participants take on a professionally-timed five kilometre or 10 kilometre road race through the village and surrounding area, with medals and Halloween treats awarded to finishers.

The sprint was sponsored by Marshalls Transport (Evesham) Ltd and supported by ARF Highway Services, Pulse Events, Mr D’s Olde Sweet Shop, the community of Norton, and volunteers.

The funds raised will contribute to the hospice's annual running costs, which are expected to reach around £12 million this year, including patient care and all necessary support services.

The hospice is an independent charity offering free, expert care for adults with an illness that cannot be cured, and support for their loved ones and carers.

Each year the hospice team supports more than 3,100 patients, family members, and bereaved people in Worcestershire.

St Richard’s relies on voluntary support, including from donations, gifts in wills, retail, and events, for the majority of its income with the remainder funded by the NHS.

To see the events coming up for the rest of 2024 and 2025, visit the hospice’s website: www.strichards.org.uk/events.

For more information about St Richard’s Hospice, visit the website: www.strichards.org.uk.