A MAJOR new fundraiser has been announced by supporters of Pendleside Hospice in partnership with Rotarians in Padiham.

Plans have been drawn up for a Winter Wander around historic Gawthorpe Hall, for December 6, in the latest addition to the organisation’s charity calendar.

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Hospice bosses promote their Girls Night Out, Little Hospice Heroes and Pendle Pub Walk, and are key supporters of the Jane Tomlinson Pennine Lancashire 10km.

Fundraising worker Vikki Haydock said: “The idea of the event is to encourage community spirit and a little Christmas magic, whilst raising funds for Pendleside Hospice in the process.

“It is set to be an amazing festive day out with a procession of hundreds of families walking on the day.”

Rotary Club of Padiham has teamed up with the Reedley hospice for the three-mile event, which will be marshalled by ‘elves’ around the hall’s grounds.

Each youngsters finishing the route, which is estimated to take between one and two hours, will be given a festive treat and the elves are also expected to hand out ‘goodies’ en-route.

An ‘eye-spy’ trail is also being set up in support of the Winter Wander, with town businesses and there is speculation Father Christmas may be dropping by.

Santa suits will be provided for adult participants and reindeer antlers and red noses for the children enlisting.

Those interested in taking part are being advised to register for a place online at www.pendleside.org.uk or call the fundraising team on 01282 440120.

Each person taking part will have to find £5.

The hospice, which cares for patients across Burnley, Pendle and the Ribble Valley, needs to raise £2.8million every year to meet running costs.