WALKERS took steps to support hospitals with a big fundraising walk.

Almost 200 walkers set off on two 12-mile walks from the Royal Blackburn and Burnley General hospitals as part of the Big NHS Walk on Sunday (June 23).

The walk is expected to raise more than £10,000 for ELHT&Me, the official charity of East Lancashire Hospitals Trust.

Christine Hughes, trust director of communications and engagement, said: “The charity is delighted to have hosted our first ever Big NHS Walk, and I’d like to say congratulations to everyone who took part.

“The event has generated a huge amount of community spirit and shown how passionate the people of East Lancashire are about their local hospitals.

"Everyone uses the NHS at some point in their lives, and the Big NHS Walk is a great way of showing your appreciation for the NHS."

ELHT&Me raises money to improve patient experience at the trust’s five hospitals and community services in Blackburn, Burnley, Accrington, Clitheroe and Pendle.

Money from the walk will go towards this.

Michelle Brown, who completed the Burnley to Padiham Big NHS Walk, said: "It was a great day out and such a nice feeling to know we’ve raised money for our local NHS services."