A walking event that is taking place for the 12th year is hoping to top £19,000 raised last year for armed forces charity Help the Heroes.

The Malvern Hills Challenge takes place on Saturday, September 16.

The fundraiser – sponsored by Malvern College and Vision Profiles – allows participants the choice of a nine-kilometre walk or one of 18km. Walkers may enter as an individual or as team with friends, family, work colleagues and four-legged friends.

They will enjoy panoramic views across the Severn Valley, Gloucestershire, Herefordshire, and Worcestershire as they run or walk at their own pace along the ridge line of the Malvern Hills.

A spokesman for the event said: “Last year saw around 350 entrants raise more than £19,000, but we want to top both of those figures this year. We already have more than 220 participants registered, which is up on the same stage last year – so it’s looking like another great day.

“It’s not a race, and all entrants can follow a marked route across the hills at their own pace to enjoy the stunning views across three counties. Do come and join us on the wonderful Malvern Hills and do something awesome to help our veterans and their families. Dogs are very welcome and get a rosette at the finish – not to mention lots of affection on the way round!”

Help for Heroes area fundraising manager, Rhys Edwards, added: “This is always a popular event, not just for locals, but for members of our staff as well, who travel to take part and catch up with friends and colleagues. Indeed, our CEO, James Needham, is participating this year, so we’re hoping for a complimentary piece of cake at Sally’s Place, where we stop and chat at the nine-kilometre point.

“Thanks, as always, to Gordon Waddell and his committee members. The funds they raise are essential in enabling us to support our veterans.”

Help for Heroes champions the Armed Forces community and helps them live well after service. The charity helps them, and their families, to recover and get on with their lives. It has already supported more than 30,000 people and won’t stop until every veteran gets the support they deserve.

The charity supports veterans, and their families, from any branch of the UK military – regulars or reserves – irrespective of length or place of service, and locally embedded civilians (and their families) who worked alongside our Armed Forces.

To enter, visit malvernhillschallenge.org or email malvernhillschallenge@gmail.com. To get help, visit helpforheroes.org.uk.