Three hundred walkers from Kent and Medway were going for gold on Sunday raising £17,000 at the 21st Anniversary KM Charity Walk.

Devised by the KM Group’s charitable division, participants laced up their boots and took part in either a five or 10 mile trek to raise funds for 31 good causes.

Charities getting a welcome funding boost included MIND, Pilgrims Hospice, Broadstairs Town Shed Project, Parkinson’s UK, Macmillan Cancer Support, and the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal.

Friends, families, rambling groups and business teams from across the county took part for their favourite charities. The oldest participant was 83 year old David Seal of Broadstairs, and the youngest was Jaxon Gordon-Thomas – aged just four – from Erith. Jaxon’s mother Kirsty was also named as the highest individual fundraiser, totaling a huge £1043.86 for Cardio Myopathy UK.

The annual event was backed by headline supporters Specsavers Opticians, and key partners Benenden Hospital Trust, Maidstone Ramblers, Gullands Solicitors, Cotswold Outdoor and Audley.

Craig Holland, Specsavers Gillingham store director, said: “We are delighted to support this fantastic initiative in its 21st Anniversary year. The KM Charity Walk raises thousands for good causes every single year, and the event continues to go from strength-to-strength.”

Grade II listed Georgian mansion Mote House in Maidstone provided the start and end point for both circular routes, and ramblers enjoyed a garden party with a barbecue and live music in the grounds following the event.

All participants were presented with limited edition medals and goody bags after completing the walk, with many groups placing their medals proudly upon their loyal dogs.

Event manager Sophie Wallace of the KM Charity Team was quick to thank all partners of the event for their continued support and assistance.

“The 21st Anniversary KM Charity Walk was a huge success attracting so many people from all areas of Kent. We are most grateful for everyone coming out and continuing to make this annual event so special. I’d also like to offer huge thanks to the hard-working staff from the Maidstone Ramblers who dedicated a lot of time to signing and managing both routes. They are instrumental to the success of the event,” she said.

Organisations interested in finding out about sponsorship packages for the KM Charity Walk 2017 should contact KM Charity Team chief executive Simon Dolby on 07989 164 752 or sdolby@thekmgroup.co.uk.

Other popular events run by the KM Charity Team now open for booking include the KM Assault Course Challenge on Sunday, October 1.

Click here to view the full KM Charity Walk gallery.