LOCAL charities are set to scoop a share of £16,000 thanks to a sponsored night time walk.

The cash raised through the 2021 Moonraker Challenge means organisers Taunton Vale Rotary Club have now brought in more than £325,000 over the 34 years the annual event has taken place.

Back in early October, around 250 walkers navigated their way in the dark round either seven or 16 miles of footpaths and byways near Bishops Lydeard.

The money they raised will go to Young Somerset, Green Days Day Care and other Rotary charities.

The main aims of The Moonraker Challenge are to raise money and for people to have fun in different and challenging circumstances.

The winners were announced at a celebration dinner attended by more than 100 people at Oake Manor Golf Club on Monday of last week (November 22).

The long course winners were ‘In it to win it’, with the short course accolade won by ‘Dark Horses’.

In terms of team sponsorship raised, in second place were 'Marching Maidens' at £1,303, with the winners being ‘Stepladder-Somerset's Men's Mental Health Project’, who raised £1,616.

In mid-November, total team sponsorship stood at £14,336, with late donations and Gift Aid expected to considerably swell the coffers.

Nick Harwood outlined the role of Young Somerset to guests at the celebration dinner.

He said more people are being recruited as they expand the work they are doing to improve mental health support across Somerset.

Green Days Day Care provides personal care for adults with learning disabilities and Marc and Kirri from Green Days said their aim is to give adults with learning disabilities the best possible chance of achieving success and happiness in their lives.

Philip Greenway, president of Taunton Vale Rotary Club, thanked the event's sponsors Porter Dodson, Collard and Co, Summerfield, Nexus, Quantock Brewery and Berrys Coaches.

The Moonraker Challenge will be held again in October next year, with the date to be advised.

Check out Taunton Vale Rotary's website for more details and updated information at tauntonvalerotary.org.uk/moonraker-challenge