Among the rotary ramblers that braved the elements were a number of groups raising money for specific causes. 

Amanda Zienkowicz walked with three friends to raise money in honour of her best friend Jane Starr who died suddenly last year of a rare heart condition. 

The four fundraisers from Busy Bees nursery in Mardley Hil, Welwyn, collected over £600 for Cardiac Risk in the Young (CRY).

Ms Zienkowicz said: "We started just before nine and managed to miss the worst of the weather. 

"The hill on the gold course (Brocket Hall) was probably the hardest bit and by the last mile I was shattered. 

"We had a great time and we have all said that we will do it again next year." 

Members of the 11th WGC Guides group also finished the walk in high spirits. 

Leader Dawn Smith said: "The sun did not shine but we still had a lovely morning and we raised a lot of money for our girls."