TREKKERS are being encouraged to take part in a 62 mile (100km) challenge across the South Downs.

Thousands of people are set to follow in the footsteps of the Gurkhas, by taking part in special event Trailwalker over the Downs on July 25 and 26.

This year’s event marks the 200th anniversary of Gurkha service in the British Army.

Originally held in Hong Kong, Trailwalker began life as a military training exercise for the Gurkhas.

It has evolved into one of the UK’s biggest team challenges and sees people trek night and day to support Oxfam and The Gurkha Welfare Trust.

The two charities became involved in 1986 and when the Gurkhas returned to the UK ten years later they brought Trailwalker with them, introducing the challenge to the South Downs National Park.

In its anniversary year, the trail is set to be a celebration from start to finish, with Gurkha food, music and dance to keep spirits high.

The Gurkhas are still heavily involved in Trailwalker – and are yet to be beaten, having set the course record at nine hours 50 minutes. The average finishing time for the 100km course is 27 hours.

The endurance challenge has raised millions for Oxfam and The Gurkha Welfare Trust to help fight poverty worldwide.

Lousie Gebbett, of Oxfam, said: “Every year we are so grateful to the teams who take on the challenge. It is an event that brings out the best of the human spirit.”

To sign up or for more information go to Oxfam.org.uk/trailwalker.