AN ENCHANTED forest filled with pirates, princesses and magical sights will entertain families taking part in a special charity event.

Peter Pan, Captain Hook and Tinkerbell were joined by Minnie Mouse and Spongebob Squarepants to help launch the Treehouse Twilight Walk.

The magical extravaganza will see people of all ages take part in a three-mile walk from Copleston High School to East Anglia’s Children’s Hospice’s (EACH) base in St Augustine’s Gardens.

Last year’s event raised �17,000 and saw more than 500 children and 400 parents complete the three-mile promenade around east Ipswich.

The walk, which is full of fun surprises, will see youngsters dressed up as pirates and princesses.

Amy Arnold, of Maycroft Close, Ipswich, and her two daughters Catlin, seven, and Kira, five, took part in the last Twilight Walk last year.

Ms Arnold said she was looking forward to discovering the wonders of this year’s event, which will take place on October 13 from 6am.

“We’ve already sign up. The girls are really looking forward to it and have been telling all their friends and cousins about the walk,” she said. “They had a fantastic time from the moment they walked through the door until they finished the walk and there was a surprise on every corner.

“The fire eaters and fairies at the Treehouse last year were amazing and the plans they have in place this year sound fantastic.

“I would really encourage young families to take part and enjoy a good family night out while supporting EACH.”

Organisers are expecting the amount of families taking part to increase this year so have urged anyone wanting to get involved to reserve their spot soon.

Registration forms are being placed in school bags, in EACH charity shops and are available at The Treehouse’s reception area.

Entry to the walk costs �6 per child, with adults taking part free of charge. Families are being encouraged to raise as much money as possible for the sponsored walk.

Entry includes special light up head-boppers and a medal for everyone who completes the walk.

To get involved or to find out further information call Patsy Johnson-Cisse or Suzi on 01473 237243. Alternatively, you can register online at www.each.org.uk