Walkers head to the coast for special event

Walkers are digging out their boots this week with the start of the South West Coast Path Association's 2014 charity event, the Great South West Walks, on Saturday 20 September.

Taking place between 20 and 28 September, the event comprises 100 circular walks covering all levels of difficulty and length, with many including themes - each led by an expert guide. There are walks across Dorset, Devon, Cornwall and Somerset sections of the path.

There are still places available on the walks, so anyone interested is encouraged to sign up now - and with many ‘family friendly' walks available across the event, all children can walk for free.

There are shorter easier walks for younger families and longer more adventurous walks for families who regularly walk together, as well as longer distance walks over tough terrain for the more experienced.

The last three years have seen some of the worst winter storms and summer rainfall in the South West for a generation - and with a 30% reduction in the funding for maintaining the Path, those who carry out this work are struggling to maintain its condition.

To help address this decline in support, the event's aim is to raise vital funds for the South West Coast Path Association in order to improve the Coast Path, alongside Children's Hospice South West to support children with life limiting illnesses.

Ken Carter, Chair of the Great South West Walks 2014, is delighted that the event has generated so much interest, saying: "We are thrilled to see so many people take an interest in the South West Coast Path and the Great South West Walks.

"Not only do we have a number of corporate sponsors and event partners, with South West Water as our lead supporter, but the support we have received from all the walk guides and back markers has been outstanding - and of course we are delighted with all the individuals who have entered the event.

"It is fantastic that so many are confirming how important it is that the Coast Path is maintained for future generations.

"We are looking forward to welcoming those who are supporting our charity and Children's Hospice South West on these walks. Do join us if you haven't already signed up! By supporting the South West Coast Path Association, through the Great South West Walks, people are helping us to improve the path and keep the way open to beautiful coastal places."

To book a walk, participants can visit the Great South West Walks website and choose one or several of the walks that they would like to participate in at www.greatsouthwestwalks.co.uk

Alternatively, registration can be made via telephone by calling the South West Coast Path Association on 01752 896237.

Listen to the opening day of the event live with BBC Radio Devon from 10 am on Saturday 20 September. David Fitzgerald will be broadcasting from the coast and linking to walkers as they set off along the Coast Path.

Further information about the organisation and the walks can be found on the website, on Twitter @LoveSWCoastPath or Facebook /SWCPA