MORE than 500 walkers set out on the 32nd annual Rossendale Round the Hills Walk.

Stepping out from Marl Pits sports complex, Rawtenstall, the 541 started an 18-mile route taking in the hills above the Rossendale Valley.

Those who managed to walk all the way were presented with certificates by the Mayor of Rossendale, Coun Alan Neal.

The event is organised by the Rawtenstall Federation of Sports and Recreation.

President Walter Whittaker said: We have been very pleased with the response with the number starting out being about 100 up on the average for the last six years.

"It proves the point that we can still get people out to enjoy a walks on the hills of Rossendale.''

Walkers came from a wide area and ranged in age from the under tens to over seventies.

The event took place in glorious sunshine with no one complaining too much about the hot temperatures in view of the often wet conditions the event's supporters have endured in previous years.

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