1,000 fluorescent women, including Charlotte Reynolds, the general manager of the Ross Gazette, took part in a sponsored midnight walk to remember friends and family and raise money for their local Hospice, on Friday, September 18th.

The heroic band of daughters, sisters, wives, relatives and friends formed a river of sparkling light that wove through Hereford’s city streets.

With their faces and t-shirts emblazoned with emotional messages dedicated to loved ones, the united team of women was cheered on by onlookers and cheerfully honked at by passing motorists.

Julie Morris, who took part in her third Venus event that night, said: "It’s always a really well-organised event and great fun. This year the Glow Zone by the Victoria bridge was something I never expected: it made being part of a group women who are remembering friends even more special."

Event Marshall Simon Oliver, who has been volunteering at Venus since it began in 2008, commented: "Venus is a great event with a unique atmosphere. It’s always wonderful to see the expression on people’s faces who are having a night out in town when they suddenly come across the awsome sight of so many women."

Now in its eighth year, the Venus Midnight Walk hopes to raise £50,000 for St Michael’s Hospice. This event is only made possible thanks to the help and support of volunteers and local businesses.

Matt Ashcroft, Events Manager at St Michael’s, said: "What makes Venus an event close to the hearts of Hospice staff is having so many women of all ages come together to support their Hospice. It’s quite amazing to look out on 1,000 women having a great time. We’d now like to ask that everyone helps us by getting their sponsorship to us as soon as possible."