More than 100 people took part in the first Manx Blind Welfare Society ’Coast to Coast Walk’ on Sunday.

They raised funds for the charity by taking part in one of two routes along the old steam railway track, opting for either the 12-mile path from Douglas to Peel or a three-mile challenge from St John’s to Peel.

The event marked the official launch of Vision Awareness Week 2018.

Chris Burn was the first to complete the full course in a time of two hours 24 minutes and Garff MHK Daphne Caine was the quickest woman to finish, just a further 20 minutes behind.

All participants completed the walk within four hours.

MBWS’s volunteers coordinator and events organiser, Debbie Thomson, said: ’It was a super event for the whole community supported by so many people in the community.

’Thankfully the weather played ball and plans are already in place for next year’s walk.

’All those involved seemed to enjoy their stomp along the old railway line while raising funds for such an important local cause.

’To our principal sponsors Skywind, Robinsons, Event Solutions, photographer Steve Babb, all the volunteers and stewards who supported us and, of course, our walkers, a big thank you.’

Everyone who took part received a certificate of achievement.

It’s hoped the final amount raised in sponsorship will be known within the next fortnight.

Vision Awareness Week runs until Sunday, September 16, when a ’blind driving’ event will be held at Onchan Raceway. Blind and visually impaired people, as well as individuals with full vision who will wear a blindfold, will drive around the track in a dual-controlled car, accompanied by a qualified driving instructor.

This year the theme of Vision Awareness Week is highlighting the importance of regular eye examinations for children.

To find out more about MBWS visit www.mbws.org.im