Organisers of the White Horse Challenge are looking for people to volunteer as marshals.

The walking event over the weekend of July 7 and 8 is raising money for the Wiltshire Air Ambulance.

The popular event is in its seventh year and during that time has raised more than £70,000 for the charity.

Participants can walk a variety of routes from a seven mile family challenge to 55 miles over the two days. The routes take in some of the county’s white horses including Devizes, Pewsey, Alton Barnes and Cherhill.

Zoe Meaden, spokesman for co-organiser Monahans, said: “Being a volunteer marshal means standing on a check point for an hour or two to greet walkers, checking if they need water top ups and help with directions.

“On most of the route you have beautiful views of the Wiltshire countryside. There is a real camaraderie and team spirit among those taking part.”

So far 120 people have registered to walk, more than this time last year.

The walk has been organised every year by Monahans, chartered financial accountants, which has five offices in the region, Rygor Group based in Westbury and Rocking House Nursery based in Shaw near Melksham. It is sponsored by the Wiltshire Gazette & Herald and sister paper the Wiltshire Times.

Mrs Meaden said: “As businesses we wanted to give something back to the community. The air ambulance is really dear to people’s hearts, people are touched by it in some way or another.

“In the beginning it was aimed at companies entering teams to walk and we were surprised at the response from the general public, so we now have a good mix of groups and individuals who take part.

“The event can be a real physical challenge, it’s something people can get their teeth into. It’s for people of all backgrounds and abilities.

“We are so proud of the event and how it has grown. The money we have raised for the air ambulance makes a massive difference.”

The Wiltshire Air Ambulance has to raise £700,000 a year. The air ambulance is combined with the Wiltshire Police helicopter. Based in Devizes, it can reach anywhere in the county within 12 minutes.

If you would like to take part in the White Horse Challenge or be a volunteer marshal, contact Monahans on (01225) 785520 or go to www.whitehorsechallenge.co.uk