Hundreds of children got their capes on for Ashgate Hospice’s first ever Superhero Night Walk over the weekend.

The sold-out walk saw more than 1,100 children and adults descend on Chesterfield’s Queen’s Park for the event on Saturday 14th October.

Participants took on one and three-mile routes from 6:30pm to help raise funds towards the hospice’s care for families across North Derbyshire.

Every child taking part donned a free superhero cape and a glow in the dark mask as they walked the route with family members.

Among those taking part was Darcey Grace, six, and her mum Abbie, who were walking in memory of Darcey’s granddad and Abbie’s dad Dave Scott.

He had planned to join the pair at the walk but sadly died on 10th September, just two weeks after being diagnosed with lung cancer.

Dave was cared for by the hospice in his final days by Ashgate’s community nursing team.

Abbie said: “When dad was diagnosed, we were told he had four to six months left. As a daddy’s girl this hit me hard. It was a huge blow to us all.

“We decided we’d take on the Superhero Night Walk together, he was really looking forward to it. Sadly, he didn’t make it here. He deteriorated quicker than anyone expected and just two weeks after his diagnosis he died.

“We’ve raised over £800 in his name and to support the invaluable work of the hospice. Because of them, my dad was able to be at home with his family, which is exactly where he wanted to be.”

Also taking part were four-year-old twins Arabelle and Sunniva and their seven-year-old sister Isme.

The trio were walking in memory of their grandfather, who was cared for by the hospice at the end of his life.

Arabelle said: “We have been really looking forward to taking part and doing this for Tiny Little Granddad.

“I’m having lots of fun with my sisters, and we have enjoyed riding around on the little tractors.”

The event was sponsored by local businesses Technique Learning Solutions, Motan Colortronic and printing partners PDM.

Dozens of fundraising volunteers gave up their time to ensure everyone taking part was safe and had fun throughout.

Charlotte Butterworth, Events and Partnerships Manager at Ashgate Hospice said: “On behalf of everyone at the hospice I would like to say a big well done to all the little superheroes who took on our Superhero Night Walk.

“The first ever event was such a huge success and all of the participants – even the parents – looked absolutely amazing dressed up and marching around Queen’s Park.

“Thank you to all our volunteers, generous sponsors as well as other local businesses for their generosity and support.

“Everyone’s support helps us raise the £9 million needed each year in order to fund our care for families across North Derbyshire.”

Ashgate Hospice’s Superhero Night Walk will be returning next year with more details set to be announced in the coming months.

Head to Ashgate Hospice’s website to find out more the hospice’s upcoming events.