Two walkers are urging people to raise money for Weston Hospicecare by taking part in this year’s Mercury Mendip Challenge.

The challenge sees walkers complete a 30, 20 or 10-mile route across the Mendip Hills in aid of the hospice.

Jodie Pitt, pictured, completed last year’s 20-mile challenge and is hoping to complete the 30-mile route this year.

She said: “Long-distance walking is my main hobby. This will be my second Mercury Mendip Challenge and it’s become part of my walking event calendar.”

Among the hundreds of people also taking part in the June 5 event is Paul Andrews, who is taking part in the challenge for the fifth year.

He said: “This is a challenge that I look forward to every year and have actively encouraged friends, family and even casual acquaintances to participate.

“The organisation which goes into the challenge is simply fantastic and the welcome you receive at every checkpoint makes the aching legs and sore feet more than bearable.

“It is a wonderful event which combines a significant personal achievement with the knowledge that every step – and there are many – is for such a worthwhile cause.

“My top tips are to carry only the essentials, walk as quickly as possible and ensure any breaks are brief. A change of socks and T-shirt halfway through also makes it a little more comfortable.”

Registration for this year’s challenge is open until 5pm on May 30 and anyone wishing to take part can register by clicking this link.