Zip it for neglected children - superhero style!

Action for Children is calling on thrill seekers in North Somerset to take the challenge of riding a zip wire to help raise vital funds for vulnerable children and young people.

The charity has organised two superheroes-themed zip wire events - the first in Bruton, Somerset on Saturday 10 March and the second just north of Bristol on Saturday 17 March.

The zip wire at Mill on the Brue in Bruton is 300 metres long and nine metres high, and participants will fly down the line across the stunning river valley.

Set in 30 acres of mixed woodland, the zip wire at Castle Quarry Activities Centre in Wotton-under-Edge is 70 metres long and 10 metres high, with participants reaching up to 30mph zipping from a cliff top across the quarry lake.

Action for Children fundraiser Shelagh Hillier said: "We are all very excited about the events and would like to encourage as many people as possible to join us for the challenge to help the most vulnerable and neglected children both locally and across the UK. Action for Children is looking to raise around £12,000 from both events, which will make a huge difference to the lives of many children we support.

"They are going to be very fun events and it would be great to have groups of friends, families, work colleagues and neighbours get involved together. Fancy dress is optional but there is a prize for the best superhero costume so we would love to see people dressing to impress. It will be interesting to see a fair few Supermen and Batmen flying through the air! "

Participants must be aged eight years old or over and raise a minimum sponsorship of £75. The entry fee is £20 each.

To receive a fundraising pack, text 'ZIP' or call 07850 975098 or email superhero.zip@actionforchildren.org.uk

Action for Children supports more than 200,000 children, young people and their families through 480 projects across the UK for as long as it takes to make a difference in their lives.

Further information about Action for Children is available at: www.actionforchildren.org.uk