PEOPLE who are aged over 50 are being urged to keep fit while raising funds by taking part in a charity walk.

As part of the Health Walk for Hospices campaign, taking place around the North-East, over-50s in Durham and Chester-le-Street are being encouraged to embark on a walk at Langley Park this Sunday.

Starting from Rutherford House Doctors' Surgery, at Rear Church Street, it will cover a three-mile route, with participants raising money for St Cuthbert's Hospice.

The walk is being run in conjunction with the Experience Corps and the Chester-le-Street and Durham Footsteps to Fitness programme.

It is backed by the Countryside Agency and the British Heart Foundation, and is part of a series of similar events taking place from Berwick to Guisborough and from Wearside to Stockton.

Anna White, of the Experience Corps, said: "The Experience Corps has been set up with the specific aim of encouraging people over 50 to give some of their time or skills for the benefit of their communities. On the walk, people can help their local hospice with a voluntary donation, as well as having fun.

"We'll also give out some information about other ways people may like to get involved in their communities."

Lorraine Honeybell of The Countryside Agency, said: "As well as being a great way to take advantage of the North-East's countryside, walking can help increase your fitness levels, improve your stamina, control your body weight, strengthen your bones, reduce high blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease."

Anyone interested in joining the walk should arrive at Rutherford House Doctors' Surgery at 10.45am or ring (0191) 261 1600 for more information.