More than 120,000 people turned out for the annual Darkness into Light walk in aid of Pieta House on Saturday morning, according to its organisers.
The 5km walk, which aims to raise funds for the charity and promote suicide awareness, began at 4.15am on Saturday.
The event took place in nearly 120 locations worldwide with 90 venues taking part in Ireland.
Early contender for #DIL2016 pic of the day? pic.twitter.com/61IQmhh3GG
— Pieta House (@PietaHouse) May 7, 2016
The first dawn walks began in New Zealand, Australia and Asia, followed by the Middle East and Europe and finally North America.
Speaking at the event in Dublin’s Phoenix Park, founder of Pieta House, Joan Freeman, said: “To feel the energy and the support of 120,000 people at our back is overwhelming.
“This is the Irish at their very best and it gives us the courage and confidence to continue doing the work of Pieta House.”
She said: “The relationship between Pieta House and the community, although forged in tragedy, provides so much hope for individuals and families throughout the country.”
Pieta House is celebrating its 10th year in operation this year and plans to open its 10th suicide and self-harm crisis centre in Waterford in June.
More than 20,000 people have used its services in its nine centres in Ireland with more than 5,500 people seeking help in 2015 alone, according to the charity.
