THE day of the 400th anniversary of the Pendle Witches trials is to be marked with a charity walk.

Organisers of the Pendle Witch Walk hope the significant landmark will attract hundreds of people to the event, which is being staged in aid of Pendleside Hospice.

The five-mile circular walk will take place on Saturday August 18, the anniversary of the witch trials at Lancaster Castle.

Simon Tattersall, one of the organisers of the event, said: “We’re inviting as many people as possible to get involved in what will be a fun day with a few surprises.

“You’re invited to come along in fancy dress – as we want as many ‘Pendle Witches’ present as possible.

“We also want the event to be a major fundraiser for Pendleside Hospice. Every penny raised from registration and sponsorship will go directly to the hospice.

“There are of course some costs associated with an event of this nature - food, t-shirts, booklets, so we’re urging as many people as possible to sign up, but also to raise as much sponsorship as possible. By working together, we can really make a difference for Pendleside Hospice in 2012.”

The event will feature refreshments and entertainment for participants, as well as showing off Pendle’s countryside and the area’s history.

To register for the walk visit www.pendlewitchwalk.co.uk.