INTREPID members of Macmillan s Sidmouth fundraising committee have stepped out to urge local people to participate in a charity walk next month.

INTREPID members of Macmillan's Sidmouth fundraising committee have stepped out to urge local people to participate in a charity walk next month.

The Macmillan Autumn Challenge on the morning of Sunday, October 19, is a figure-of-eight walk which can be done in two halves of 4.5 or five miles.

Registration will be between 9.30am and 10.30am at Peak Hill car park on the day and there is a £5 entry fee. Walkers with "well-behaved" dogs are welcome.

Committee chairman Tricia Heard said: "Walkers will be able to see the best that East Devon can offer.

"Our shorter route takes in High Peak and Ladram Bay, with spectacular panoramic coastal views.

"The five mile walk is over breathtaking heathland and takes in Muttersmoor, Otterton Hill, Salters Cross and Bulverton Hill.

"The more energetic can, of course, complete both sections!"

All walkers will be presented with a special certificate and Cotswold Outdoor Ltd has sponsored the prize for the top individual fundraiser.

Minutes secretary Gill Munro said: "The money raised by this event will help fund new Macmillan cancer care specialists such as our GP facilitator who is working with surgeries throughout east and mid Devon to improve the care of people with terminal cancer and their families."

She said Macmillan funded services like this and its financial support had vastly improved the lives of countless people affected by cancer.

Committee member Daphne Holcombe added: "This is a brilliant opportunity to enjoy the best of East Devon while helping people affected by cancer.

"A donation of £5 per person and the opportunity to ask friends and family for sponsorship would really help make a difference.

"Please go the extra mile for people living with cancer who are facing some pretty tough challenges of their own!"

Sponsorship forms can be obtained by emailing jennyashby@tiscali.co.uk or calling (01395) 515128.