THE winter has been long, but with spring squeezing it's buds through the cold, there is no excuse to not get out and go for a nice walk. While you are at it, you could also help raise funds for the homeless.

HARP - Southend's homeless charity - is organising a lovely sounding Spring Walk to take place next Sunday, May 8.

You can choose to start at either 2pm or 3pm, where walkers will be strolling along the Prittle Brook Greenway from Priory Park to Belfairs Park.

If the whole camaraderie and good cause of the thing isn't enough to get you polishing off your walking shoes, then perhaps the promise of free tea and cake afterwards in the Woodlands Centre at Belfairs Park, will be enough.

If you're not up for walking back again, the HARP mini bus will be able to transport you back to Priory Park.

So, now for the money raising bit, which is after all, the real point.

HARP is asking for £8 from adults as an entrance fee to the walk, £4 for children or £20 for a family.

Visit the events section at harpsouthend.org to register and pay for your place, or email supportercare@harpsouthend.org.uk or call 01702 615000.

Well-behaved dogs are said to be welcome.