Walkers are preparing to stride through the Lake District while raising funds for West Cumbrian charities.

The 41st Annual Workington to Keswick Charity Walk is due to take place on Sunday, March 18.

Hikers will gather at the Royal British Legion Club in Workington to embark on the 30-mile trek to Keswick.

All money raised will be split between three charities: Footsteps Child Development, Blood Bikes and Cumbria Youth Alliance.

Alison Sibbald, who is on the walk's organising committee, said: "They're charities we've never used before - we're doing something different this year. People who have done the walk before suggested them."

She added: "There's been a lot of interest on Facebook already. We hope to get a good turnout on the day."

Entries are invited from anyone over the age of 16. Both walkers and joggers are welcome but organisers have emphasised that the event is not a race.

Although each individual's total time is recorded, the main aim is to complete the course.

As well as raising money for West Cumbrian charities the event aims to further people's interest in walking.

Since its inauguration 41 years ago, over 9,000 people have taken part in the walk and thousands of pounds have been raised for local charities.

Entries for this year's event are now open. To register, visit: www.workington2keswick.co.uk/registration