THE Guild Care hosted its sixth annual Walk to Remember.

More than 170 supporters set off from Beach House Grounds on a 5k or 10k route along the seafront in aid of the Worthing charity.

The revamped event was a huge success as participants gathered to support and help raise vital funds for Guild Care’s community support services.

Guild Care provides more than 30 services to people aged five to 105 living within Worthing and its surrounding areas.

From dementia care, home care, care homes and community transport to providing carers with a much-needed break, they aim to reduce isolation, support people to live independently for longer and to live well.

There were many personal reasons why people choose to take part.

Participants Carol, Tina, Debbie and Louie the dog came out on Sunday to show their support.

Carol said, “I got involved as I’ve got a dear friend whose struggle with dementia is now over.

“But there are three people – my mum, Tina’s mum, and a cousin – who are currently suffering with it.

“We just like to contribute to help fight this awful challenge. I’ve enjoyed it very much, it’s been a perfect day.

“I’ve had a lovely time.”

A team made up of Tesco employees, Ashley, Paula, Sarah and Myra, ran the 10k route together.

Ashley said: “I lost my mum in 2010. She was 67, so that’s why I’m doing it.

“It’s fantastic – it’s a good run out.”

Sarah added: “I ran for my grandad who we lost ten years ago and my nan who sadly lost her life nine years ago. I’ve enjoyed myself – it was brilliant.”

Guild Care thanked the Mayor and Mayoress of Worthing for showing their support and handing out medals, as well as Town Crier, Bob Smytherman, whose resounding and supportive voice could be heard throughout the event.

It would also like to thank Sarah Simmons from SK Dance, who organised the warm-up for participants before everyone set off.

This year, for the first time, the event finished with a mini festival complete with a bouncy castle, tea cups, singing chef Jean de Rien and Terry Carvey, a variety of food stalls and a penalty shoot-out run by the Chelsea FC Foundation.

Events officer Juliet Hinton-Smith said, “This year’s Walk to Remember was a great day and everyone really enjoyed themselves.

“The weather was perfect for a sunny walk along Worthing’s seafront, followed by music and food at Beach House Grounds. Thank you so much to everyone for coming along and supporting Guild Care and we hope to see you at next year’s walk.”

The event brought together both young and old with participants as young as three walking and running alongside their family.