HUNDREDS of women are being urged to don their boots for a moonlight walk over the Malvern Hills.

The fund-raising event, in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support, is being backed by BBC Midlands Today presenter Suzanne Virdee and organised by local woman Hilary Al Rasheed.

Mrs Al Rasheed said: “Ladies will be walking in teams, not only for security reasons but also to add a competitive edge to the event, and we are hoping to make it a visual spectacle for Malvern by providing walkers with glow bands to wear as they set off.”

It is hoped the trek, on Saturday, October 3, will become an annual event and attract more than 2,500 women.

Partners of the ladies taking part are urged to sign-up as marshalls for the event, which will leave from Malvern St James’ sports centre and take in Jubilee and Perseverance hills, as well Sugarloaf Hill and an optional detour to Malvern’s highest point. Mrs Al Rasheed said: “There will be a motivating warm-up before we bus entrants up to the start point on the hills in teams.

“There will be a break point halfway for hot soup, and at the finish coffee and bacon rolls, hot dogs or a vegetarian option will be available.”

Registration will be open from 7pm to 8.30pm at the school’s sports centre and walkers will be driven the short distance to the start point and on the return journey from the finishing point by minibus.

It is described as suitable for all walkers aged over 16, but participants are urged to wear sensible footwear, wear warm clothing and carry a torch and a bottle of water.

Suzanne Virdee said: “Cancer must touch every family in some form these days. Collaboration between the NHS and organisations such as Macmillan is essential for the effective treatment and support of individuals and their families.”

Macmillan Cancer Support aims to improve the lives of people affected by cancer.

It provides practical, medical, emotional and financial support for those affected by the disease.

For more information and to register, visit macmillan.org.uk/malvernsbymoonlight.