TODAY we urge our army of readers to join in Hyndburn's biggest-ever charity walk.
The Observer is supporting the canalside walk organised by Church and Oswaldtwistle Rotary Club which is expected to raise at least £50,000 for good causes.
It will take place on Sunday 25 June along a 10-mile stretch of the Leeds-Liverpool Canal towpath from the Dunkenhalgh Hotel, Clayton-le-Moors, to Thompson Park, Burnley, and a shorter seven-mile route will also be available.
Between 500 and 1,000 people are expected to take part to raise sponsorship money for a host of charities.
Walk organiser Fred Pickering of the Rotary Club explained: "The idea is a simple one. We will do all the organising and publicity, deal with the health and safety aspects and provide the stewards.
"To defray these costs we will charge a £3 entry fee but after that we won't take a penny. All the money will go to the walkers' own favourite charities.
"These could be a large national charity, a small pub collection, schools, sports clubs - anything that goes under the broad umbrella of a deserving cause."
Observer editor Mervyn Kay said: "We are delighted to support this unique concept. We know from past experience how generous our readers are and we urge them to get out in the fresh air and take some healthy exercise for a worthy cause. It should be a great day with a terrific atmosphere."
Musical entertainment will be provided at the Dunkenhalgh and the Pendle Jazzmen will play at the Inn on the Wharf along the route.
A number of celebrities are being invited to take part and people may be able to arrange to "walk with a star".
The walk coincides with a gala day in Thompson Park and organisers are hoping to arrange a shuttle transport service to bring walkers back to the starting point.
Walkers can start at any time between 9.30am and 12 noon. Dogs are welcome if kept on a lead but the route is not suitable for wheelchair users.
Refreshments will be available along the way and everyone completing the walk will be given a certificate.
For full information and sponsorship forms ring Mr Pickering on 243965, e-mail info@rotarycharitywalk.org.uk or visit the website www.rotarycharitywalk.org.uk .
