JUST when you thought it was safe to go back on the moors, the Rossendale Way challenge is back!

Once again, keen walkers, runners and charity fund-raisers can try the gruelling 46-mile Rossendale Way in a Day challenge, which is being sponsored by Theakston Best Bitter and organised by the Rossendale Search and Rescue Team.

This year's event will take place on July 10.

The event is one of the major fund-raising events organised by the publicly funded and voluntarily manned search and rescue team.

The circular walk covers some of the area's most rugged terrain while taking in Rossendale's picturesque countryside.

Last year's challenge raised around £2,500 for the team, with more than 200 people tackling the marathon walk. Event organiser and search team member Mr Andy Ellis said: "We are pleased to welcome back the brewery as the main sponsor of this year's event.

"The Rossendale Way in a Day is a popular walk and has in the past attracted long distance walkers from as far afield as London not to mention the odd entrant from Hong Kong and Holland.

"The walk also gives the team's funds a major boost, helping towards the £15,000 a year operational costs of the Rossendale team. Other charities can also benefit through sponsorship."

The mammoth trek starts from Loveclough Working Men's Club and takes in Rising Bridge, Haslingden Grane, Stubbins, Turn Village, Cowpe, Whitworth and Sharneyford.

A shorter, although still challenging 24-mile Half Way in a Day walk is available as an alternative for those with less experience. Entry fees are £10 for adults and £5 for under-16s. Mr Ellis said: "Completing the journey is rewarding and search team members are situated along the route providing encouragement, refreshments and, in some cases, transport back for those who have given it their best shot."

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