YOUNG people affected by meningitis are being invited to a weekend of adventure later this year in Dorset.

Meningitis Now has announced that its popular 'Believe and Achieve' weekend, funded by Children in Need, will return to PGL Osmington Bay, near Weymouth, on Saturday, October 8 and Sunday, October 9.

Registration is open to people aged between 11 and 18, in the south, who have suffered from meningitis or meningococcal disease.

The weekend allows youngsters to meet other people who have suffered from the condition, whilst also trying out some adrenaline-fuelled activities such as zip wires, trapeze, canoeing and a high ropes challenge.

The PGL weekend offered by Meningitis Now enables young people to come together to share their experiences in a fun-filled and informal environment.

Susette Worgan-Brown, project co-ordinator at Meningitis Now said: "These weekends are always very popular and spaces fill up fast.

"It’s a great opportunity for young people who may have been held back by this debilitating disease and its after effects to get out and about, meet new people and get stuck in to some new, exciting challenges.

"It also gives them a chance to interact with others who have been through a similar experience, highlighting that they are not alone and helping to understand the impact of meningitis."

Bacterial meningitis kills more children under the age of five in the UK than any other infectious disease.

All cases of meningitis, whether bacterial or viral, are serious and require immediate medical attention.

Meningitis Now is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year and funds research into vaccines and prevention methods.

The charity also takes part in awareness raising work and offers support to people affected by the condition and their families.

The weekend of activities is offered for free to young people with meningitis, including refreshments, meals and accommodation for the Saturday night.

All activities that take place across the weekend will be led by qualified PGL staff.

To register for one of the limited places on the 'Believe and Achieve' weekend, visit meningitisnow.org/believeandachieve.

Those interested can also call 01453 768000 or email believe@meningitisnow.org for more information.