WESSEX Cancer Trust’s flagship fundraising event returns to Burley Park in September.

The charity needs 400 people to take part in Walk for Hope to raise vital funds for locals living with cancer.

Those interested can walk five, ten or 20 miles; alone or with friends and family, and at their own pace.

CEO Rachel Billsberry-Grass said: "“This is our fifth Walk for Hope and it’ll be a poignant day; both because we turn 40 in July and because we’re so thrilled we’ll be able to come together again in person after last year’s virtual event.

"The peace and beauty of the New Forest make it a fitting setting to give hope to friends and family undergoing cancer treatment, to remember loved ones and to support everyone affected by cancer. If you prefer, you can still do the Walk for Hope your own way, from home.

"If you’d like to dress up in 80s clothes to help celebrate our 40th birthday we’d love that too. Please join us to make our 2021 Walk for Hope the biggest and best yet! And if walking isn’t your thing, there are plenty of volunteering opportunities available – from laying out signage to handing out water and snacks.”

Philip Dinn from Brockenhurst walked ten miles as part of a group from New Forest Rotary at the 2020 event and raised £500.

He was supported by the charity's Waterside support centre after being diagnosed with a rare form of blood cancer.

He says Walk for Hope gave him a focus: "From experience I know that when you’re diagnosed with cancer it’s important to find something that can take you from your lowest ebb to being filled with hope for the future. Wessex Cancer Trust does that with the support it provides in its local communities, and the team has been working harder than ever to keep that support going throughout the pandemic.

"Taking part in Walk for Hope over the years has really helped me focus on getting well during my recovery period."

The event will run on September 26. Entrants will receive an official t-shirt, sponsorship forms and all the training and event information.

After being cheered over the finish line, walkers will be presented with a medal and will be able to celebrate over a slice of 40th birthday cake.

Tickets are £25 adults, £15 for under 16s, £85 for a team of four adults and £5 for dogs.

Visit https://www.wessexcancer.org.uk/event/walk-for-hope-2021/ for more information and to sign up.

There is a sponsorship goal of £100 for the five-mile route, and £150 for the ten and 20-mile routes.