CHILDREN and adults have the chance to take part in a sponsored walk through a Worcestershire village and help raise money for charity.

People will even be able to enjoy a picnic at the end of the family walk through Arley, near Bewdley, which will help raise funds for Acorns Children's Hospice.

Fund-raiser Sophie James said: "The Acorns Arley sponsored walk is a lovely way for family and friends to enjoy the autumn splendour of Arley Arboretum and its beautiful surrounding areas.

"Participants can also bring picnics or enjoy refreshments at the Arboretum tea rooms at the end of the walk."

Acorns needs vital funds to reach more life-limited children living locally who could benefit from its specialist care and support services, such as 11-year-old Alex Jordan, of St Peter's, Worcester, who has Duchenne muscular dystrophy.

Acorns currently cares for about 600 life-limited children and their families in the West Midlands, but it estimates there are 1,000 chronically ill children in the area who could also benefit from its services.

The fund-raising walk begins at Arley Arboretum at 10am on Sunday, October 21. The course is suitable for pushchairs, and dogs on leads are welcome.

To register for the walk, which costs £5 per person or £20 per family, call 01386 554 848 or visit www.arley-arboretum.org.uk