THE beautiful coastline of North Devon and Exmoor will be the setting for eighteen specially-selected walks, taking place September 20 to 28, to help raise vital funds for the South West Coast Path Association and Children’s Hospice South West.

From Hartland to Minehead, the sponsored walks include the area’s most stunning locations. Organised by the Association, they form part of The Great South West Walks 2014, which aims to celebrate the South West Coast Path by offering 100 popular, circular walks across the region.

Part of the attraction of the walks – as well as the beautiful coastline - will be an expert leader who will guide walkers, offering a unique perspective into the area, exploring themes such as history, plant and wildlife, mining heritage, and foraging.

The walks range from four to eleven miles and include easy, family-friendly strolls, as well as more challenging and rough terrain treks.

Marina Leadbetter, Events Fundraiser at Children’s Hospice South West’s Little Bridge House, near Barnstaple, says, “One of the many ways we offer support to families is respite care. This vital care gives families an opportunity to spend quality time together and the chance to create happy memories. It is fantastic that participants of the Great South West Walks 2014 will now be able to support this work with every step that they take along the Coast Path.”

Esther Pearson, Business Development Manager for the South West Coast Path Association, says, “As many families enjoy walking the Coast Path together, creating lifelong memories, it is fitting that the Great South West Walks 2014 will not only help with the improvement of the beautiful Coast Path, but also benefit other families who may have an uncertain future.”

Funds raised through the walks will be equally shared between the two charities. The money will be used for improvements to the Coast Path to enable everyone to continue ‘loving the South West Coast Path’ and to help Children’s Hospice South West provide care and support to children who are living with life-limited conditions and their families in the South West.

The North Devon and Exmoor walks costs £7.50, but organisers are hoping participants will also raise money through sponsorship. The event is expected to attract up to 1500 walkers over the eight days.

Registration is now open for bookings. For more details, please see http://www.greatsouthwestwalks.co.uk