WALKERS had a splashing time when they braved the rainstorms to raise money for Salisbury District Hospital's Stars Appeal.

Sunday's Walk for Wards was a sponsored walk around Wilton Estate and more than 500 fundraisers pulled on waterproofs to take part.

They chose between a ten kilometre hike and a three kilometre stroll, which took them through parts of the estate not usually open to the public.

The Earl of Pembroke cut the ribbon to get the walk under way and many hospital staff and past patients were among those who splashed and squelched through puddles and mud. The event raised more than £30,000 for the Stars Appeal.

Much of the money will go towards the keyhole operating theatre for cancer patients and the neonatal intensive care unit, although some walkers raised money for specific wards where they or members of their families have been treated.

"It was a fantastic day and although the weather was awful, the atmosphere was brilliant," said Stars Appeal director of fundraising Dave Cates. "This has given a massive boost to the appeal and we would like to thank everyone who made this event a success."