HARDY hikers are being invited to take part in a scenic sponsored 25-mile walk and help disabled people sample the delights of life at sea.

The Friends of the MV Freedom, a charity specialising in taking disabled people on boating trips from Weymouth, is staging a coastal walk.

Now in its 24th year the charity takes more than 2,500 people out annually.

A recent replacement of two engines on the MV Freedom has cost £25,000 and organisers hope to recuperate some of this with the Challenge 2005.

Boat skipper and group treasurer Peter Targett said: "I'm not a great walker and what organisers Roger and Nina Hanger have tried to do is make sure, even if walkers are struggling, everyone has some beautiful countryside to look at.

"People should support it because the MV Freedom touches so many people's lives in the area. The other way of looking at it is that you never know when you might have a stroke or be affected by a disability and be prevented from going out to sea.

"I think that's where the boat's name comes from. It gives freedom to people."

He added that the MV Freedom is fully equipped to cater for those with disabilities.

Scheduled for Saturday, September 3, the Challenge 2005 will start and finish at West Fleet Holiday Farm in Chickerell. It will take walkers through the parish of Moonfleet made famous in J Meade Faulkner's smuggling novel and offer dramatic views of the 18-mile Chesil Beach.

The event is open to all ages and although there is no completion time limit participants are being reminded that they may be walking for up to 10 hours.

Weymouth Air Cadets will be marshalling checkpoints and members of St John Ambulance will also be on hand.

Entry costs £12.50 per person and this includes car parking, light refreshment during the walk and a meal at the end. Participants are also being asked to raise sponsorship or make a donation.

To find out more or book a place phone 01305 784995 or e-mail roger.hanger@zoom.co.uk