MORE THAN 130 people have signed up for the NSPCC Cotswold Hack (Hike Against Cruelty to Kids).

But organisers want more to step forward to help beat last year’s fundraising total and get desperate children the support they need.

And you have until next Friday to put your name down.

The Cotswolds Hack, supported by the Oxford Mail, was staged for the first time last year and raised £21,340 for the NSPCC.

This year it is hoped it will be even better and raise more for the charity’s work with children and families, including funding ChildLine.

Already signed up for this year’s event on Saturday, September 24, is mum-of-two Sam Addington, 38, from Boars Hill, Oxford.

Mrs Addington, who is married to Neil, 44, and is mum to William, six, and Joseph, four, said: “Since I have had children, I have become much more aware there are many who do not have the support, or the voice they deserve. The NSPCC offers it, so raising money for this charity is really worthwhile.”

More than three thousand Oxfordshire children called the confidential phone service ChildLine for help last year.

The Hack’s fundraising manager for Oxfordshire, Amanda Howard, said more fundraising means more help for youngsters.

She said: “ChildLine is a lifeline for many children in Oxfordshire. More than 3,000 ring it every year, and a further 9,000 get in touch via their mobile phones or the internet, feeling they have nowhere else to turn. Because of a lack of funding, roughly a third of calls go unanswered.

“It’s awful to think of a child in the middle of the night needing help and not being able to get through.

But the more people who take part in the Hack, the more money we raise.”

The event offers participants two routes – 12-miles or 22-miles. For those who love a challenge the 22-mile Hack gives the chance to see the beautiful Cornbury Estate, and walk in the footprints of Winston Churchill at Ditchley Park.

While the 12-mile Hack is still steeped in history but is a little easier on those hiking boots.

Mrs Howard added: “I’d like to thank all the people who have signed up for the Hack so far and encourage even more to come forward..

“But this event is also a great way to raise money for the NSPCC and to help support vulnerable and abused children and we are confident that, with the support of all those who get involved, we will be able to top the £21,340 we raised last year.”

Registration is £10 for the 12-mile route and £20 for the 22-mile route and the walk is for over 18’s only. The deadline is Friday September 9.

For more details see nspcc.org.uk/hack or call 01908 328060.

dwaite@oxfordmail.co.uk l Are you taking part in the Hack – the Oxford Mail would like to feature your story. Please call 01865 425444