WALKERS are being invited to join a charity challenge along part of Dorset's beautiful world heritage coast.

The National Trust's Golden Cap challenge walk is a sponsored event aimed at raising money for conservation work on the Golden Cap estate's unique landscape, and ensuring that the 20 miles of footpaths on the estate are maintained and restored.

The 2,500-acre estate includes the highest cliff on the South Coast and contains a number of important wildlife habitats, including ancient woodlands, shingle foreshore and huge areas of shifting undercliff.

There are two walks - one of 12 miles and one of six miles - and they are both designed to show off the best the estate has to offer. The cost of registering is £10 for adults, £5 for children and £25 for a family. The person who raises the most sponsorship will receive a £30 National Trust voucher.

BBC TV Antiques Roadshow presenter Paul Atterbury, who lives at Eype, is supporting the walk on September 20.

Patrick Woodford, National Trust property manager for West Dorset, said: "Golden Cap is a jewel on the West Dorset coast.

"We are hoping around 150 people will register for the walk, which is a great opportunity to enjoy a day out discovering this spectacular coast and countryside while raising valuable funds for the estate."

For further information or an entry form call 01985 843601 or visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wessex