ALMOST 200 people have taken part in a five-mile walk around Aberystwyth to raise money for cancer charity Tenovus.

As the sun was setting on the promenade, 183 people lined up outside the Old College for the start of the very first Light up the Night event to be held in the town.

Dressed in neon, with fairy lights and glow sticks, the walkers could be seen even as the stars came out, snaking their way to the harbour, along the Ystwyth Trail, around Blaendolau playing fields and back to the Old College.

Ex-Aberystwyth student Josh Stacey organised the event, which took place on Saturday, 2 June and included entertainment from the Aberystwyth-based Tenovus choir, a Walkers Wall for participants to write messages in memory of a loved one, and the opportunity to light a candle.

Everyone who took part in the walk, which started just after 9pm, enjoyed some food and a hot drink upon finishing.

This year is special for Tenovus Cancer Care as the charity celebrates its 75th anniversary, and Josh wanted to mark the occasion in his former university town by organising this walk.

Speaking after the event, he said: “The support we received has been incredible.”

“Thank you so much to everyone who took part, whether as a volunteer or as a walker.

“We had 183 people sign up for the event, with some travelling from England to take part.

“From ticket sales alone, we’ve raised £1,624.43!

“Lots of walkers had dressed up in their brightest clothing and wearing lots of glow accessories to help Light up the Night, and it’s great to see people really enjoyed the event.”

The charity does a lot of work in Aberystwyth, from funding research at Aberystwyth University to providing support for anyone dealing with cancer through the Sing with Us choir and mobile support unit, as well as confidential support through the cancer support line and callback service.

The charity has also recently introduced an ACTivate Your Life course to provide practical emotional support for those who have been aff­ected by cancer.

To find out more about Tenovus Cancer Care, visit tenovuscancercare.org.uk