CHRISTINE Thorpe, of Woodthorpe, York, may be only 12, but she is already an old hand at charity fundraising.

The youngster is a regular participant in the annual St Leonard's Hospice Family Adventure Walk, which is organised by her grandparents, Dennis and Muriel Foster, of Heworth, York.

She is preparing for this year's walk, a seven-and-a-half mile challenge at Castle Howard on Sunday, June 22. Fundraisers for the York hospice said the walk was suitable for all ages and was full of interest along the route.

Participants should wear sensible footwear and take a waterproof, a packed lunch, and snacks.

Check-in for the walk is at 10am at Welburn village hall, and entry costs £2 for adults and £1 for children.

St Leonard's community fundraiser Helen Moreton said: "The Family Adventure Walk is one of our most popular events, with people like Christine and some of her friends coming year after year for an excellent day out.

"Some of them are sponsored on the walk, helping us raise even more money."

More information, entry forms and sponsorship forms are available by phoning 01904 781576.

Updated: 08:41 Monday, June 09, 2003