Leicester City Ambassador Alan ‘The Birch’ Birchenall joined fundraisers as Full Steam Ahead for LOROS made its debut on Saturday.
Working in partnership with The Great Central Railway, the event saw around 200 people walk a five mile route for LOROS before enjoying a trip on the LOROS Express.
The Birch, who is also a LOROS Patron, waved off participants at the start of the walk from Quorn and Woodhouse Station. 
LOROS Events Lead, Laura Betts said: “What a fantastic turn-out we had at our first ever Full Steam Ahead event.
“I was so pleased to see so many people - and dogs of course - enjoying the beautiful Leicestershire countryside and raising money for LOROS.”
Supporters headed cross country through the villages of Old Woodhouse and through private land around Swithland Reservoir, leading through to the beautifully nostalgic old station at Rothley.
From there, participants jumped on board the Great Central Railway and were taken back to Quorn where they enjoyed a complimentary hog-roast at the The Manor House pub.
“It was a sell-out event, which raised around £5,000 for LOROS, which is amazing,” added Laura.
“After a few days of heavy rain, I have to admit I was slightly worried about the weather but in fact, the sun was on our side and came out to play for the duration of the entire event.”
General Manager of the Great Central Railway, Richard Patching said: “Great Central Railway was delighted to be given the opportunity to host the start and finish of the LOROS walk last Saturday.
“It raised awareness of the wonderful work carried out for families in need of support at extremely difficult times.
“The feedback received was tremendous and we sincerely hope that we can help LOROS again in the not too distant future with another sell-out event. Last week proved to be a feather in Great Central Railway’s cap too.”
Find out how you could support LOROS by visiting www.loros.co.uk/support-us
