VIDEO: Thousands take the dawn walk from Darkness into Light in aid of Pieta House

Thousands of people across Meath rose in the darkness to make the walk into the light this morning raising vital funds for Pieta House in the process.

From Fairyhouse to Oldcastle and Laytown/Bettystown to Trim people set off on 5km walks (and swims) and in many cases to remember loved ones lost to suicide.

In Laytown/Bettystown Cllr Sharon Tolan joined a group of hardy sea swimmers to watch the sun rise. "Amazing morning for Darkness into Light East Meath! Huge crowds turned out to walk, run, swim and even some kayakers! Many thanks to all the volunteers and the organising committee."

Meanwhile in Bray, there were incredibly moving scenes in Bray this morning as broadcaster Charlie Bird told thousands of Darkness into Light walkers that he would ‘extend the hand of friendship’ despite his own struggles.

He encouraged everyone to do the same, and to ‘live life to the full’.

The renowned broadcaster led the Bray walk for Pieta house, with over 2,000 participants taking part in the coastal town. He was able to address the crowd at the bandstand by using a speech device, and received a huge round of applause.

- If you have more photos you'd like to share from this morning's events please email readerspics@meathchronicle.ie and we'll do our best to include in our coverage and in Tuesday's paper.