ONE of Southend biggest fundraising events returns next month and organisers want even more people to sign up and make it a real blaze of colour.

All walkers take part to raise funds for a charity of their own choice.

The Colourthon has evolved over the years and now comprises of two fun events.

These are the Moonlight Colourthon - the original and still the ultimate challenge, a half marathon walk around Southend by night and the Twilight Colourthon - a 10k fun walk event around Southend.

The event was created by Southend Round Table, a registered charity itself run by volunteers, and since its inception in 2007, it has gone from strength to strength.

Organisers can now proudly boast that in this time the Colourthon has been responsible for raising almost £1.35million, benefiting 726 different charities.

On average that equates to a hugely-impressive £128 raised by each and every walker for their nominated charities.

The walk kicks off at 6pm on Saturday, July 1, and those walking are encouraged to dress as brightly as their imaginations will allow.

With 13.1 miles to cover, the walk takes in all the sights, sounds and smells of the seaside by night.

The stewarding team will keep walkers safe and cheer them on, all the way back to the night time finish line party.

To take part in any Colourthon events walkers must first register and become a member. There are two categories of the free membership - personal, which allows anyone to become part of the event and organisation - intended for companies, charities and businesses.

Members will be kept fully up-to-date. You can also register to take part in any of the Colourthon events either on your own or as part of a group, nominating the registered charity you wish to raise sponsorship for.

The entrance fee for the Moonlight Colourthon is £20, which includes an exclusive brightly-coloured Colourthon T-shirt and finishing medal.

For more information or to take part, visit colourthon.org