ROSSENDALE and Pendle Mountain Rescue Team are urging hikers to get involved in a charity walk -- Rossendale Way in a Day.

Walkers are being invited to dust off their boots and take part in this years popular event.

The 45-mile trek around the Rossendale Valley is an important date on the mountain rescue team's fund-raising calendar.

For those less enthusiastic about walking so far, the 22-mile Half Way in a Day is also taking place.

In a unique twist to tradition, both routes will follow a clockwise direction, enabling well-seasoned 'half wayers' to experience the opposite end of the trail.

Walkers and runners are welcome and this summer's event which has been scheduled for Saturday, July 3, at the nominal entry fee of £10.

Prizes will be awarded for first walkers and first runners back on both distances.

The mountain rescue team will be on hand all day providing food and drinks, followed by a slap-up meal on completion of the distance.

Andy Ellis, spokesman for the mountain rescue team, said: "People who remember the good old days, where roaming through glorious countryside on a bright, balmy July day, was a regular occurrence are invited to join us."

He added: "We will be occasionally stopping off for an impromptu rest against the nearest tree then topping the day off with a hearty, well-deserved meal."

He added: "Rossendale Way in a Day veterans will know that this is a thoroughly enjoyable day, meeting new friends or catching up with old ones. And each year we are delighted to welcome new face.

"So whether you're a fitness fanatic or just fancy a long walk, come along and support your local Mountain Rescue Team."

For more information and an entry form contact Andy Ellis, Rossendale & Pendle Mountain Rescue Team, 46 Clegg Street, Haslingden, BB4 5LW, or ring 01706 217371 before 9pm, or go to www.rpmrt.org.uk.