IT IS official! The Orwell Walk has been launched and people across the county are being encouraged to step out for charity.Up to £50,000 has been raised for many charities through the walk that goes through some of the most spectacular Suffolk countryside.

IT IS official! The Orwell Walk has been launched and people across the county are being encouraged to step out for charity.

Up to £50,000 has been raised for many charities through the walk that goes through some of the most spectacular Suffolk countryside.

And the Evening Star are looking for 20 people to put their best feet forward for the Evening Star Press Ball fund, which aims to raise tens of thousands of pounds for Disability Care Enterprise (DCE).

The money will go towards buying all sorts of equipment for people with disabilities, including special buggies, wheelchairs and computers, to enhance their lives.

During the last seven years, the Evening Star Press Ball has raised more than £160,000 for the DCE and often raises more than £25,000 on the night. But this year we hope to raise even more with the help of the community, fundraising in aid of the Press Ball fund.

Money can be raised for any charity or cause by doing the Orwell Walk, not just the Press Ball.

This year it is even easier to register to do the walk by getting a registration form from the internet.

Secretary of the Rotary Club of Ipswich East Keith Harris, who is organising the walk, said: "We really want to make people aware of the fact that there is an Internet site where you can download registration forms.

"Whether you are raising money for your ten-year-old son's new football strip or for Macmillan Nurses, you can raise an enormous amount.

"We have had people raise nearly £2,500 before."

By taking part in the Orwell Walk you get to do something special and get some great exercise while enjoying the beautiful Suffolk countryside.

Mr Harris said: "It is taking place at the time of year when there is the possibility of some exceptional weather. We are aiming to get 1,500 walkers involved and raise £50,000."

The walk is taking place on Saturday, June 20, and registered walkers can choose to hike up to 25 miles.

However, there is also an 11-mile route and 18-mile course.

The walk begins and finishes at the Gainsborough Sports Centre in Maryon Road, Ipswich, and follows the banks of the River Orwell to Felixstowe.

The registration fee is £2.50 per adult (£4 on the day) and £1.50 per child (£2 on the day), which covers administration costs such as drinks and sponsor cards.

For more details on how to register, go to www.orwellwalk.org.uk or contact Norman Haines on 01473 215333 or email norman@eshalum.co.uk.

- Donations for the Press Ball fund should be made to Disability Care Enterprise and sent c/o Geraldine Thompson, Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN.

n. Let us know if you are planning to do the walk for the Press Ball fund by calling the Evening Star Newsdesk on 01473 324790.