A GROUP of Thorpe Bay mums have organised family friendly pumpkin trails to raise vital funds for charity.

Helen Woolhouse, Philippa Peters, Gemma Cartwright and Elspeth Spall have set up three contactless pumpkin trails where 25 houses across Thorpe Bay and Shoebury will be displaying letters in their front gardens for families to collect and rearrange into a Halloween themed word.

The event gets underway today, from 2pm, and will continue until 7pm on Sunday.

It is hoped the Covid-safe trails will help to raise money for Havens Hospices.

Elspeth, whose five-year-old daughter Seren has been preparing to take part in her witch costume, said: “The Thorpe Bay and Shoebury Pumpkin Trails will run for three days and the routes will stretch across an area covering over 600 acres to ensure that everyone can participate safely.

“We came up with the idea to bring our community together safely at a time when we need to stay apart.

“The event will give our children a bit of fun - along with some fresh air and exercise - and support local businesses and organisations.

“Most importantly, it will raise some money for Havens.”

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Elspeth insists the pumpkin trails will follow coronavirus guidelines imposed by the government.

She added: “Thank you to everyone in our local community who has donated and supported the trail so far and to those who have decorated their houses and gardens for the occasion.

“We ask all participants to not knock on people’s doors, ensure children are accompanied by an adult and that everyone taking part follows the current government guidelines on social distancing so that we can keep everyone safe during the fun event.”

Havens bosses thanked the mums’ for the innovative fundraiser.

Jane Hopkins, voluntary income area team leader at Havens, said: “We can’t thank Helen, Gemma, Elspeth and Philippa enough for organising this Halloween trail in aid of Havens.

“They have put so much hard work and effort in to make the event safe for everyone.

“We don’t charge a penny for our care – and that’s only possible because of donations made by our local communities.

“Every pound raised through this event will help the charity continue making every day count for everyone we care for.”

To donate, visit justgiving.com/fundraising/ELSPETH-SPALL2020.