Thornbury Walkathon has been launched today. The fundraising event, organised by Thornbury Rotary Club, is taking place from Monday, May 24 to Sunday, June 6.

People who wish to take part can choose any time and date that best suits them.

The sponsored walk is raising money for local charities and encouraging people to have fun in a safe and active way. It is already proving popular, with teams being entered from a wide variety of groups and organisations - including Brownies and Scouts, youth charities, schools, sports clubs and walking groups, as well as couples and families.

Over the past 50 years Thornbury Rotary Club has raised and distributed over £500,000 to good causes at home and overseas. The hope is that ‘Walkathon 2021’ will help to build on this with an initial target being set of £7,500.

This year the principal charity chosen by Rotary President Barry Williams is JIGSAW Thornbury, an organisation that supports families with children and young people who have additional needs. Other charities will also benefit from the event. JIGSAW

Tor Goodman, founder and CEO of JIGSAW Thornbury, said: "We are very grateful to Thornbury Rotary for choosing us as the main charity for the Walkathon.

"After the last year we have been hit hard with our venue being condemned. This support is a real lift for the organisation and is helping to bring our team together, walking and raising funds."

Walkathon 2021 has received support from local businesses including the main Business Sponsor Europa Group, as well as Renishaw and Bonds of Thornbury.

It is not too late to join in. Visit ThornburyRotary.org for full details on how to enter.

You can donate at virginmoneygiving.com/fund/ThornburyRotary.Walkathon21.