MORE than 250 walkers set off from Taunton Racecourse under the light of a full moon for a fundraising challenge which has secured thousands of pounds for sick children.

The racecourse was the starting point for the 258 walkers who took part in the Taunton Vale Rotary Club’s 28th Moonraker Challenge on Saturday night.

Teams followed clues on a planned route which followed bridleways and footpaths through checkpoints at Thurlbear Wood and near Staple Fitzpaine, before stopping for soup and pasties at a rest station at Castle Neroche.

Walkers then continued downhill through Whitford to Witch Lodge and back to Orchard Portman.

The teams had to answer questions to gain points towards their final score.

The winners of the shorter loop, of about seven miles, were The Tortoises – aka Julie and Ed Burton, Emily-Rose Gale and David Kennett.

The longer loop, of about 14 miles, was won by Otto’s Crew, comprising Tim Macdonald, Harry Macdonald, Natalie Macdonald, David Meadows and Sarah Taylor.

Around £10,000 has been pledged so far for Children’s Hospice South West and other Rotary charities.  

A trophy presentation evening will be held at the Somerset County Ground on November 17.

The club thanked sponsors, Raynet, First Ambulance, and club members who staffed the rest station and checkpoints, as well as all the participants.