BIG-HEARTED walkers are being urged to stride out for one of St Helena Hospice’s biggest fundraisers of the year.

The Pier-to-Pier walk between Clacton and Walton attracts hundreds of people.

It has become so popular that this year’s event is taking place over two days for the first time.

Walkers can head from Clacton to Walton on April 19 or walk the reverse route on June 21. Adventurous walkers can also complete the return leg – or even take part on both days.

This is the fifth year the hospice has staged the family-friendly event.

Hospice spokeswoman Fliss Strode said: “We are really excited this is our fifth Pier-to-Pier walk, which has made over £165,000 since 2011.

“We hope that by giving people the option of two dates, it will encourage our supporters to join us again on either day.”

Registration is free, but organisers want youngsters aged between five and 14 to try raise at least £15 in sponsorship and older walkers more than £25.

To register, go to sthelenahospice.org.uk/pierto pier15 or call 01206 791468.