Extra activities are being laid on for this year’s Orwell Challenge – as this year it coincides with the Suffolk Day big weekender.
The popular event, on Sunday, June 23, will see hundreds take on a picturesque route through the countryside near Ipswich, exploring areas off the beaten track most never have the chance to see.
Last year’s challenge, which is organised by the Ipswich East Rotary Club, attracted more than 700 participants - raising more than £105,000 for charity.
Early bird tickets for this year’s event are available until February 28 - so book your place fast.
John Button, from the Rotary Club, said the event has a challenge for everyone.
He said: “This year we have got the Orwell Walk - the original one where people can chose a distance between three and 25 miles - then we have a half marathon and a full marathon.
“There should be something that everyone can take part in and feel they have beaten a challenge - which is the whole idea.
“The route goes from Gainsborough Sports Centre then goes along the perimeter of the foreshore.
“Then it takes a different route back right through Levington and Nacton and through some parts of the countryside you wouldn’t be able to walk or run through normally.
“The event opens up some beautiful parts of Suffolk that will be new to people, thanks to the private landowners who are letting us use their land. “It is just a really fun day. Everyone who takes part each year is amazed by the camaraderie, fun and enjoyment people have along the way round the walk.”
Formerly known as the Orwell Walk, and then the Orwell Walk, Run and Cycle - the event was renamed the Orwell Challenge last year, including the new marathon distance.
Mr Button said: “It’s same weekend as Suffolk Day so we will try and get some extra activities to make it extra special and join in with the fun. It is a unique event as if you want to raise money for a different charity that is up to you.
“We are not raising funds for a particular charity so it is up to those taking part who they raise money for. It is something the family can do together”
For more information on the Orwell Walk and to book your place visit www.orwellwalk.co.uk
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here