FAMILIES are being invited to take part in a spectacular walk in aid of the UK’s leading meningitis charity later this year.

Meningitis Now is inviting families from across the south west to join it for this year’s Steppes Travel Five Valleys Walk.

Its flagship sponsored walk aims to raise funds to the charity fight the disease and help it mark its 30th anniversary.

The popular walk takes place on Sunday, September 25, and follows a 21-mile circular route through the beautiful Cotswolds.

For those who don’t want to tackle the whole route a free bus service will take them back to their starting point from any of the nine walk checkpoints.

Laura Gibbs, events manager at Meningitis Now, said: “This year it’s our 30th anniversary – that’s 30 years of research, awareness and support – making a difference to those at risk from or living with the impact of this horrible disease.

“We’d love you to join us for the Five Valleys Walk this year to make this our biggest and best year yet and mark this occasion.

“Each year the walk raises vital funds for our lifesaving and life-changing work, so this year we’re asking walkers to raise £30 – or more if they can – so that we can make an even bigger impact on the disease through our work.”

Everyone who raises or donates £30 by September 19 will be sent a token to redeem against a drink generously donated by Stroud Brewery.

Those who sign up to take part by that date will be entered into a competition to win a signed Gloucester rugby shirt or a Microsoft tablet.

The walk’s top fundraiser will win a fantastic balloon flight, courtesy of Bristol Balloons.

Laura added: “The Five Valleys Walk is a wonderful event that everyone can take part in and enjoy, whether you’re an experienced rambler or a family wanting to enjoy a day out in the fresh air, and we’ll be pulling out all the stops to make sure you have a great time.

“Because meningitis can affect anyone at any time it’s the perfect opportunity for the whole family to do their bit to support people living with the impact of the disease.”

Advance entry costs £10 for an adult (16-years upwards) and £5 for a child. Children under-five and dogs are free. A group ticket for up to four people is £25. Prices to register on the day are higher.

Go online at MeningitisNow.org for more information and to pre-register.