“I'm walking on my own but I walked some of the way with a group of ladies I met and they've been amazing.

“My mother in law was in the hospice over Christmas and she unfortunately passed away in January. The hospice was absolutely amazing, and I’ve got other family members under the care of St Helena now.

“My husband is currently really poorly and will be under the hospice at some point. I feel I have got to do something to support the hospice.”

Participants went home tired but smiling with a medal and a stick of St Helena seaside rock. 

St John Ambulance supported the day, and Toni Wilson and Holly Tanner of Colchester Clubbercise provided warm up routines free of charge at both piers. 

Marcus Poston, fundraising manager at St Helena, said:

“What an incredible event! A huge, huge thank you to everyone who supported our Pier to Pier. With the sun shining on us, we couldn't have asked for a better day. 

“A huge well done to our amazing supporters walking 7 and 14 miles along the Essex coastline, raising vital funds for the hospice, with a special mention to one 8 year old girl for completing 14 miles in memory of her loved one.

“A special thank you to our event sponsor Pickering Group for their continued support. Our thanks go also to our volunteers who come out in force to support at both Walton and Clacton Piers, along the route marshalling, and supporting in the build up to make it a great event.

“Our next event is Midnight Walk on 27th September which is set to be a fantastic night!”