AGE Concern Swindon is appealing for people to support their work by taking part in the Kellogg's Corn Flakes Great Walk 2005.

The local 10 kilometre sponsored walk is part of one of the biggest charity fundraising events of the year.

The marathon relay starts in John O'Groats, goes through Ireland and on to Land's End. The Swindon leg, on Friday, August 12, is at Lydiard Park.

Mel Richards, fundraiser with Age Concern Swindon, will be taking part in the walk from Marlborough to Brinkworth via Lydiard Park, a total of 42km.

She said: "Age Concern Swindon is helping a large number of people locally. We have something like 500 older people a week with whom we are in contact, so we really do reach a lot of local people.

"We help them in a number of different ways and support them in their daily lives.

"Children and adults of all ages and abilities are invited.

"It's not a race. It's about getting active, helping others and most of all it's about having fun. Whatever your age or fitness level, come along and support me."

Diet and Fitness Expert Rosemary Conley CBE is giving the walk her backing.

She said: "I am thrilled to be associated with the Kellogg's Corn Flakes Walk 2005.

"It is a fantastic initiative and by getting the nation walking, it will help to combat the country's growing obesity problem.

"I would encourage everyone to support their local event if they can to raise funds for a registered charity, community or school project of their choice and get themselves fitter and healthier at the same time."

And GP and resident doctor on ITV's This Morning, Dr Chris Steele, is also backing the walk.

"Sadly we are in the midst of an epidemic of Mad Couch Disease," he said.

"I would strongly recommend that you get involved in the Kellogg's Corn Flakes Great Walk to kick start you to 'walk to waste away your waist'."

Events for the Corn Flakes Great Walk will be taking place all over the country between April and September.

Entry to the Swindon walk is £10 and there is no minimum sponsorship to be raised.

For details and entry packs call Mel at Age Concern Swindon on 01793 692166 or visit the Great Walk website at www.great-walk.org

Gareth Bethell