BIG-hearted Worcester people are being urged to put some fire into their fundraising when a six-foot dragon leads walkers around the city in aid of children's homes.

The emerald green dragon, called Cedrick, will be leading the way during a sponsored walk to raise money for youngsters living in children's homes across Britain on Saturday, June 9.

The five-mile walk is part of the annual NCH Step Out For Children fundraising event, which raised £130,000 last year.

Alan Parry, one of the charity's community fundraisers, said he had seen a great response to the event and predicted a "great" turnout. The walk, which will be carried out by members of Worcester's Methodist churches and residents of the city, has been organised by Howard Leeson and Judy Hooley.

"We are delighted that Howard Leeson and Judy Hooley and their enthusiastic team of volunteers have chosen to get involved with this year's Step Out for Children," he added.