WOMEN from right across north Essex are once again being urged to step out at a unique fundraising event.

St Helena Hospice today launches its second annual Midnight Walk, with the aim of getting thousands of women walking across Colchester as midnight chimes on Saturday, June 5.

The 12km walk (about 7.5 miles) starts and finishes at Colchester United’s Weston Homes Community Stadium.

Last June’s walk involved 1,500 women and raised more than £150,000 for the hospice, in High Woods. which cares for people with terminal illnesses, and supports their families.

This year there will be places on the walk for 2,500 women, but demand is expected to be brisk, with entrants encouraged to apply early.

Participants pay £15 to register for the walk. Many will take part in memory of a loved one or friend who has been cared for by the hopsice, but organisers stress the fun event is open to all women.

Kate Alden, event manager, said: “The reason decided to make it ladies-only is not to exclude the men in our lives, but simply to make it a night out with the girls.

“We want the evening to be fun, relaxed and a chance to catch up with the ladies in our past, present and hopefully make new friends for the future.”

“We are inviting men to come and support the event by volunteering as stewards.

“We want women to encourage husbands, partners, boyfriends, brothers, fathers and any other other men in their life to help out on the night.”

Ms Alden said her team was excited to be launching the 2010 event.

She added: “We really appreciate the generous support we have received from so many companies this year and look forward to welcoming 2,500 ladies to join us on June 5.”

The Gazette is again supporting the event, along with Colchester United, Red Tiger Branding & Design, Hatfields Furnishers, Specsavers in Clacton, Balfour Beatty, REL Field Marketing, Water Direct, Anglia Crown, Five Lakes Hotel, Golf, Country Club and Spa and Total Car Parks.

To register for the walk fill in the form on this page, call 01206 791740 for details, or visit www.colchestermidnightwalk.co.uk