ACORNS Children's Hospice knew it had a mountain to climb when fund-raising began for the new three counties hospice.

Now, as it heads for the summit of the appeal, a challenge has been issued to anyone who'd like to take on a real mountain - Mount Snowdon, the highest peak in Wales.

Acorns, which has £750,000 left to raise, is looking for adventurers to take part in what has been dubbed the Ache for Acorns weekend - two action-packed days which end with a climb up Snowdon.

To join the weekend on October 30 and 31, participants need to raise £250 in sponsorship, which will cover accommodation, all meals, instruction and safety equipment.

"This challenge will be fun as well as stretching," said event organiser Andy Jarrett. "We want our fund-raisers to have a good time."

Fun was on offer, too, at Acorns' recent roadshow in Maylords Shopping Centre, held to mark the beginning of Children's Hospice Week.

"It was very busy and buzzy," said fundraiser Fran Winterbourn. "A couple of visitors to the stand have been inspired to hold their own fund-raising events."

For more information about the Ache for Acorns weekend, call 01905 767676 or visit www.acorns.org.uk

6 Volunteer Lucy Howells with Molly Watts at Acorns' recent roadshow. 043902-1. Photograph by Ben Hussain.