TREK FOR ACORNS

ITV Central News presenter Joanne Malin is calling for more volunteers to join her on a fundraising trek to the Grand Canyon in June 2007, in aid of Acorns Children's Hospice.

The 10-day challenge will see participants following a trail through the stunning landscape, encountering beautiful waterfalls and staying with a native tribe of Havasupai Indians. If you would like to sign up and help Acorns, applications must be in by the end of November - call 01564 825032 or visit www.challenge365.co.uk.

Acorns is also offering five 'Gold Bond' places in next year's Flora London Marathon, guaranteeing entry to the race.

Runners of all abilities are encouraged to apply, even if they have already applied through the usual channels - you must be over 18 and able to raise at least £2,000 for Acorns.

The closing date is December 8 and the winners will be announced on December 13. To obtain an entry for call 01564 825032 or email laura.Thompson@acorns.org.uk.

PUTTING ON THE GLITZ AT DECO

A new Art-Deco-style caf aims to bring something of that golden age of style and service to the heart of Worcester.

Inspired by his travels abroad, Deco's owner Chris Eames has researched every aspect of the design in meticulous detail, right down to the original 1930s silver teapots used for afternoon tea. To mark the caf's opening, guests were treated to champagne, cocktails and canaps, and were entertained by local jazz trio The Smithodeon Band. The buzzing paparazzi photographers were there to capture the glamorous throng - some of whom came dressed for the occasion

FUNDRAISING FLIGHT

Worcester accountancy firm McKnights and its financial sister company McKnight Wyvern have raised over £1,300 for the Noah's Ark Trust by filling the sky with hundreds of helium balloons, sold in aid of the charity and released above the city. The event also featured the launch of a racing hot air balloon by the Kidderminster-based Rogue Balloon Team, who took part in the World Championships in November. The Noah's Ark Trust supports bereaved children and their families, and the money raised will go towards this year's fundraising target of £5,000.

CHARITY FASHION SHOW

The Bromsgrove and Redditch branches of Soroptimist International held a charity fashion show in October in aid of the Acorns Children's Hospice in Worcester. The event, held at Worcester Rugby Club, featured beautiful clothing and accessories from local boutiques, make-up demonstrations and the chance to buy lingerie, jewellery and accessories. Over £2,000 was raised for the charity.

RUNNING FOR BARNADO'S

November 5 was a day to remember for Rod Thomas, head of Business Services at Worcester's Harrison Clark Solicitors - he took part in the New York Marathon in aid of Barnardo's, the law firm's chosen charity for 2006. This was Rod's first New York Marathon, having completed the London Marathon last year along with his colleague Catherine Phillips. The 26-mile race takes in five New York bridges and the city's five boroughs before finishing in Central Park - and Rod completed the course in a very respectable four hours, 30 minutes and 17 seconds.