HIKERS are being urged to sign up for a 25-mile sponsored walk across the Malvern Hills to raise money for the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children.

The walk, on Saturday, June 27, is NSPCC's first Hike Against Cruelty to Kids - HACK - in the Midlands.

The circular route starts from the Pheasant pub in Welland and stretches across the entire ridge of the Malvern Hills passing freshwater springs and ancient hill forts with views into Wales, the Severn Valley and the Cotswolds.

Money raised will be used to help support NSPCC projects and services across the country, including two ChildLine bases in the Midlands which counselled more than 30,000 children last year.

Hikers can register by visiting nspcc.org.uk/hack or contacting 08448 920217 or midlandsappeals@nspcc.org.uk. The registration fee is £15. The NSPCC is also looking for volunteers to be marshalls on the day.

Worcester Warriors rugby star Rico Gear, an NSPCC supporter, said: "You don’t have to be a professional sports person to get involved, you just need a bit of determination and be up for a physical challenge. Every step you take will help make a difference to children’s lives.“ The NSPCC recommends that people taking part get some training in beforehand. Average walkers should complete the walk within 12 hours with more experienced faster walkers aiming to complete the walk within eight hours. There will be checkpoints and people on route, with radio contact between all checkpoints and the control centre.

The HACK is open to people aged 18 years and over. No pets are permitted on the walk.