WALKERS will trek 100km over the South Downs as part of an ultramarathon event to raise more than £12,000 for a children’s hospice.

Chestnut Tree House Hospice near Arundel has already signed up 50 fit fundraisers to take on the endurance challenge.

The South Coast Challenge is a 100km trek from Eastbourne to Arundel over coastal paths and the idyllic South Downs Way.

Held over this coming August Bank Holiday Weekend, the arduous route takes in iconic scenery but is not for the faint hearted.

Some extremely fit - or foolhardy - entrants will run the entire course.

They will be aiming to finish the course within 15 hours.

Most are expected to walk or jog the trail, and have been warned by organisers to prepare by practicing walking at night across unfamiliar landscapes.

The route will be signed with glowsticks as well as way markers, and will be marshalled by event volunteers with rest stops with food and drink provided along the way.

At the half way and three-quarters marks, hot meals will be provided.

Arundel children’s hospice Chestnut Tree House is one of eight event partners who are using the trek as a springboard for their own fundraising.

Bella Cripps, event coordinator at Chestnut Tree House, said: “This exciting ultramarathon event starts in Eastbourne, where our community team nurses are based, and finishes in Arundel, close to our hospice building.

“Our participants will conquer famous Sussex landmarks including Beachy Head and Devils Dyke, covering the distance that our nurses travel on a daily basis to reach families in their own homes across Sussex.

“So far we have 50 participants registered to walk on behalf of Chestnut Tree House. Together they have pledged to raise in excess of £12,000 for the children’s hospice, which is the equivalent of five days of all community services provided by Chestnut Tree House.

“We want to wish all of our walkers and runners participating the best of luck with their challenge.”

The full event costs £69 to enter, but all participants must make a fundraising pledge of at least £395, half of which must be raised by July 17.

A 50km route is also available. To find out more go to southcoastchallenge.com.