NOW is what life is all about.

And in its 15th birthday year, Chestnut Tree House children’s hospice is looking for adventure-seekers to seize the moment and make this the year for taking on an ultra-challenge to raise vital funds for local life-limited children.

Taking place on 23-24 June, Race to the King is a double-marathon challenge for walkers and runners who are willing to go the extra mile – or 52.4 to be exact – to raise money for Chestnut Tree House.

Starting at the Slindon Estate, just 12 miles from the children’s hospice, participants will walk, jog or run 52.4 miles along the ancient South Downs Way, finishing on the steps of Winchester Cathedral – the burial place of the first Kings and Queens of England.

Lauren Gowing, Events Fundraiser at Chestnut Tree House, said: “Every challenge and event our supporters take on for us makes a difference.

“This double marathon is a real endurance challenge, but every penny raised will go a long way to helping us to raise the £6,850 we need each day to cover all our specialist care services – both at the hospice and in families’ own homes.

“In our 15th birthday year, we want to inspire everyone to live for the Now and make every moment count.

“This is the first time we’ve been involved in Race to the King, and urge anyone looking for an ultra-challenge to sign up and help us to help local life-limited children and families live life to the full.”

Race to the King participants can choose to take on the full distance in one go (£39 registration), or opt to complete it over two days, which includes camping overnight on Saturday 23 June (£59 registration). The minimum sponsorship for either is £425. Visit http://www.chestnut-tree-house.org.uk/race-to-the-king to find out more or to register.

Chestnut Tree House opened its doors on 11 November 2003 and currently provides care and support to around 300 children with life-shortening conditions and their families across Sussex and South East Hampshire – both at the hospice and in families’ own homes. The cost of providing this service is over £3.5 million per year,