CHILDREN are being encouraged to dig out their boots to explore the secrets of woodland and help Havens Hospices.

The annual Havens Hospices woodland walk allows children, and their parents or carers, to be guided around the nature reserve at Little Havens by professionals from the Essex Wildlife Trust which maintains the land around the hospice in Thundersley.

There will be a story trail and youngsters can fill in worksheets along the way.

Refreshments will be available at the end of the walk.

This is the fifth event of its kind and it has so far raised more than £13,000.

Angela Clements, community fundraiser, said: "The woodland walk is very popular with families looking for a morning or afternoon out. The land surrounding Little Havens is beautiful, but not many people know it is there. It is a chance to see nature at its best."

There are two walks taking place, at 11am and 2pm on Thursday, May 29. Although it is free to take part, children are encouraged to ask friends and family for sponsorship for completing the challenge and raise money for the charity.

Havens Hospices includes Fair Havens Hospice, in Westcliff, and Little Havens Children's Hospice in Thundersley.

To book a place please call Angela on 01702 220350 or sent an e-mail to aclements@havenshospices.org.uk