A local group is seeking volunteers to help with a family-friendly sporting event taking place at Rutland Water this April.

The Bluebell Walk or Cycle Ride 2023 will be taking place in and around Barnsdale Gardens and on the shores of Rutland Water on 30 April in support of Crohn's & Colitis UK.

This is a family friendly event aimed at raising much-needed funds for the national charity, who support those suffering with Crohn's and Colitis. They work towards providing a better quality of life to those suffering today, and aim to see a world free from Crohn's and Colitis tomorrow.

This event will raise funds for the cause and welcome families to walk or cycle the designated routes around Rutland Water and Barnsdale Gardens. There will also be fancy dress, face painting, music and garden games.

Furry friends are welcome too. Image credit: Crohn's & Colitis UK.

The team pride themselves on hosting an event that is flexible and suits all abilities. As such, there are varying course lengths to suit everyone, including 2, 5 and 9 mile walking routes, as well as a 17 and 25 mile cycle ride.

A spokesperson for the team said: "The organising team all suffer with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (Crohn's Disease or Ulcerative Colitis) so we are very flexible when it comes to your challenge. If on the day you are feeling unwell you can change which challenge you choose to do, or even send a friend or family member in your place.

"If you want to come along but you're not up for the walk or cycle ride, you can still be a vital part of the event by becoming a volunteer and help us make a great event even greater. We are always in need of volunteers and would love to share the day with you."

This is the first time the event has been hosted since 2019, and the team are delighted to be back - especially since the event will take place just before the Coronation of King Charles III on 6 May, a time for celebration and patriotism.

As such, the theme for the event will be 'Royal Coronation' and participants and volunteers are invited to come in their best fancy dress - although this is not essential!

The team concluded: "Bring the whole family for a fun day out amongst the bluebells while raising funds and awareness for a great cause."

Resdients are welcome to join in, how ever they can. Image credit: Crohn's & Colitis UK.

The event will begin at Whitwell, Rutland Water, at 10am on Sunday 30 April 2023, and conclude at 5pm.

Register your place today and start your fundraising!