THE time has finally come for St Clare Hospice to host their popular annual Winter Walkies event. Next weekend (Sunday 26 February 2017) the Hastingwood-based charity will be welcoming more than 250 walkers and their furry friends to take on a 5k sponsored walk to help raise vital funds for the hospice.

St Clare Community Fundraising Lead, Dani De’ath, the event organiser, said: “Thank you to everyone who has already signed up to take part this weekend – we are overwhelmed with the amazing response. We have received a record-breaking number of signups for our Winter Walkies event this year – but not to worry, there is still room for more! Online registration for the event closed on Wednesday 22 February, however it’s not too late for you and your perfect pooch to join in with the fun as we will be accepting new sign-ups on the day.”

Dani continued: “Everyone is welcome to join us on this beautiful rural route across the Essex countryside – whether you are a dog owner or not. Just remember your wellies as it is likely there will be plenty of muddy feet and paws. Come and join us for the cutest event in the St Clare calendar – you’d be barking mad to miss it!”

Tickets are available to purchase on the day, costing £10 for adults and £5 for children or £27.50 for a family of four. Entry includes a free soup and roll, dog rosette and certificates for children. The walk sets off at 11:00am and the route starts and finishes at St Clare Hospice, Hastingwood Road, Hastingwood, Essex, CM17 9JX.

For more information, call Dani De’ath on 01279 773738, email [email protected] or see www.stclarehospice.org.uk/event/winter-walkies

The St Clare Winter Walkies event is kindly sponsored by Forest Vets.