STRONG winds failed to stop thousands of people turning out for the 25th annual Wirral Coastal Walk yesterday.

The 15-mile fundraising walk around the borough’s coastline is estimated to have raised more than £400,000 for charity.

The number of registered walkers was down on last year’s record-breaking turnout, when glorious sunshine helped attract 5,500 people to the event.

Organisers from North Wirral Rotary Club put the reduced numbers down to the blustery weather.

People of all ages took part, many in fancy dress, and there were stopping points at five and 10 miles for those who could not manage the entire trek.

Walkers said conditions were particularly difficult at Hoylake, West Kirby and New Brighton because of sand being blown from beaches onto the promenade.

The walk started at Seacombe Ferry and took in New Brighton, Leasowe, Meols, Hoylake, West Kirby and Caldy before finishing at Thurstaston Country Park.

Jim Costello of North Wirral Rotary said: “Last year was an exceptional year because it was so warm and sunny and the numbers are very much affected by the weather on the day of the walk.

“A lot of people make their decision about whether to walk based on what it’s like on the day.

“But despite the swirling winds and constant threat of rain the people of Wirral turned out in large numbers again.

“This year we sent out a phenomenal amount of sponsorship forms and we estimate the event has raised £400,000 for good causes.”

Workers from Unilever, which sponsored the event for the 13th year, handed out fresh fruit at the start of the walk and ice cream en route.

There were bags of Unilever products at the finish line for registered walkers.

Some used the event to remember lost loved ones, with a large turnout reported for Help for Heroes to pay tribute to fallen soldiers.

Another group of family and friends walked for Claire House in memory of Wallasey teenager Charlotte Churchill, who was killed in a car crash in North Wales in April.

Mr Costello added: “Despite the weather everyone was in very good spirits. The Coastal Walk means a lot to people.”