To celebrate 50 years of Dorchester Town Council, a local festival is introducing a challenge to support Dorset County Hospital.

Dorchester Walking Festival is taking place between May 11 and May 19 and people are now being invited to take part in its new 50km challenge, with all the proceeds going to the DCH Charity Emergency and Critical Care Appeal.

The appeal is is aiming to raise £2.5million over three years to fund extra facilities for the new critical care unit, such as relatives' overnight accommodation, and a patient garden.

There will be prizes on offer to those who complete the challenge, with a stay at the Duchess of Cornwall in Poundbury and Monart spa treatments.

READ: Residents invited to return of Dorchester Walking Festival

A spokesperson for the festival said: "During National Walking Month, participants will have the opportunity to choose from over 50 guided and self-guided walks, catering to all abilities and interests.

"To complete the 50km challenge, participants can choose from a selection of longer challenge walks included in the festival program, such as the Cerne Valley walk and the Hardy Monument Jurassic coast loop. 

"Additionally, two walks by train, supported by Great Western Railways and South Western Railways, offer longer routes for the more adventurous hiker. All guided walks featured in the brochure count towards the 50km challenge.

"Don't miss your chance to explore Dorchester's breath taking landscapes and rich heritage during this unforgettable nine-day celebration of walking."

For those wishing to take part in the challenge, the walks must be booked online and a walking festival programme picked up from the town council offices, the tourist information point at Shire Hall Museum in order to log their progress. 

This must be done after each walk with the walk leader.

Once the 50km has been completed the log is emailed to dorchtourism@gmail.com.

On Monday, May 20, those who have successfully completed their logs will be entered into a draw to win the prizes.

To book your place on a walk visit https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/dorchester-walking-festival-2024-3185499

For more information about the Dorchester Walking Festival and to view the full programme of events, visit discoverdorchester.co.uk/whats-on/dorchester-walking-festival.