Starlight Hike cancelled due to strong winds

Around 420 people were expected to take part in the event this year

A charity hike has been cancelled for a second year in a row after strong winds were forecast.

About 420 walkers and 90 volunteers were expected to take part in the Sue Ryder Starlight Hike at Ferry Meadows in Peterborough on Saturday.

However, the charity called off the event, which featured a 5km (3.1 mile) and 10km (6.2 mile) route, after "dangerously high wind gusts" of up to 40mph were forecast.

Sue Ryder, which offers palliative and bereavement care, said it was "heartbreaking" to cancel the hike, as it had hoped to raise about £41,000 in "vital funds", but safety had to come first.

The event was called off last year due to flooding in Ferry Meadows following heavy rains

Sue Ryder fundraiser Aimee Cowling said: "We are absolutely gutted that we've had to cancel it again this year. This time, due to dangerously high wind gusts being forecast.

"Not only is it our biggest fundraising event of the year, but it's also a really meaningful evening for so many people who take part in memory of loved ones.

"We are heartbroken for the disappointment this will cause our supporters, volunteers and partners, as we know just how much love and passion they bring to this special event.

"As heartbreaking as it is, everyone's safety must come first."

'Major blow'

All registered participants for the Peterborough event are being contacted about receiving a full refund of their registration fee.

The charity hopes supporters will complete their own Starlight Hike at a time and place that's safe and meaningful to them.

Allison Mann, regional director for Sue Ryder, called it a "huge financial and emotional blow" for the organisation.

"The funds raised through events like Starlight Hike are vital to help our care teams to continue delivering their expert and compassionate care to people who are dying or grieving.

"At a time when we're facing increased costs and rising need, we rely on the amazing generosity of our local community to keep going more than ever before."

Steph Peachy, head of visitor engagement at Nene Park, said the team was "disappointed" to cancel the hike.

"The forecasted high winds are beyond our event's safety thresholds, and the wellbeing of all participants, volunteers and staff must come first."