THIS September sees the return of the popular Five Valleys Walk through the Cotswold countryside, marking the 30th anniversary of the much-loved event.

The sponsored walk through Stroud’s five valleys; Painswick, Slad, Toadsmoor, Chalford and Nailsworth, takes place on Sunday, September 24, with all proceeds going to Stroud based charity Meningitis Now.

As in previous years, participants can complete part of the walk or take on the whole 21 mile circuit. There are eight checkpoints along the route, and people can start and finish at a checkpoint of their choice.

Checkpoint number one is based at Stroud Cricket Club and participants are being encouraged to start and finish their walk here, as parking is available.

Checkpoints open at 8.30am and close at 5.30pm. There will be a free shuttle bus service available for when walkers are ready to call it a day, and be taken back to their starting point.

Hot and cold food and drink available along the route from local producers, with a hog roast available at the Cricket Club.

A free pint is being provided by Stroud Brewery, for all participants who complete the full 21 mile circuit and collect all eight stickers from each checkpoint.

Free fruit and water is provided at each checkpoint.

Meningitis Now have launched an online merchandise shop so participants can look the part in t-shirts, hoodies and backpacks or umbrellas.

Dog bandanas are also available for your four-legged friends.

Visit teefunder.co.uk/shop/meningitis-now.

All money raised goes to Meningitis Now.

  • Sign up now at meningitisnow.org