Wanted - Jailbirds with far-reaching travel ambitions - that's the appeal from four Essex charities.

Diabetes UK, Essex Autistic Society, Essex Air Ambulance and Open Road are joining forces for the Colchester Charity Jailbreak, in which participants have 24 hours to get as far away as possible from their "prison", the town's Norman castle.

Using nothing but their initiative and well-placed contacts, the "inmates" will have to hitch lifts or beg transport, and, in the process, raise money for the organising charities.

The idea came when staff met up to discuss ways of working together.

Spokesman Neil Winch said: "We had a bit of a brainstorm session, and this was the daftest idea we could come up with."

Their first joint venture could raise more than £10,000, and hopes are high that it will be held annually.

Scheduled to take place over the weekend of October 27 and 28, the event will have categories for people who want to stay in the country.

  • For more information contact Diabetes UK on 01376 501390, Essex Autistic Society on 01206 216466, Essex Air Ambulance on 01787 221828 or Open Road on 01206 766096.