MORE than 400 walkers donned their pink attire at this year's Walk the Wye sponsored walk in aid of Breast Cancer Research.

Spirits remained cheerful, even if the weather wasn't, as the walkers trekked nine miles from Tintern.

Organisers of the event, the Rotary Clubs of Monmouth, Chepstow and Ross said that the event has so far raised £3,600.

David Forbes, president of Monmouth Rotary Club, said: "We were very pleased with the number of walkers who joined the various walks. We received over £1,500 in sponsorship money on the day, with many more walkers still collecting donations from their sponsors which already stands at £3,600. It's looking like it has been a very successful event. I ask everybody to give generously, to support both the walkers who made such a tremendous effort, and the breast cancer research charity In The Pink."

Michelle Whiting from Raglan, won the award for the most outrageously dressed walker as she came along as a pink-haired fairy.

Two walkers from Abertillery considered the nine mile walk from Tintern a little too easy, so completed the whole walk while pushing their young children in a push chair and a buggy.

Walk coordinator, rotarian Norman Williams, said: "It was fantastic to see so many walkers enjoying the day, and the six walks that we had organised. We were afraid that the gloomy weather forecast would put people off, but almost the same number of walkers joined us as in previous years, creating a great atmosphere. The unique formula of taking walkers up or down the valley by bus, and letting them stroll back to Monmouth in their own time, along the banks of the Wye, was much appreciated.

"The Rotary Club would like to thank all those who helped make the day such a success. In particular, Monmouth Show Ground committee for providing an excellent venue for the event, H & H Motors for providing the bus transport, Eagle Plant for the site facilities and St John's Ambulance for keeping a watchful eye on everybody."

To make a donation in support of the breast cancer research charity, In The Pink contact rotarian Norman Williams on 01291 680016.