SPRING into action and take on a challenge to help raise money for Southend Hospital.

The Southend Hospital Charity is urging members of the public to get proactive and join three challenges to raise money for hospital wards or for its Dementia Appeal.

The first fundraising appeal will be a leisurely stroll down the 1.33 miles of Southend Pier, on Sunday, April 30 to support patients with dementia.

The walk is organised by the Rotary Club of Leigh and attracts hundreds of people each year. Tickets are £5 per adult and £2.50 per child, with family tickets at £12.

If you are up for more of a challenge you can abseil down the side of the 154ft tower block at Southend Hospital on Saturday, May 13.

No experience is necessary and the event is open to everyone over 16. Entry is £40 with a minimum of £100 sponsorship for a ward or department of your choice.

Finally, an oar-some challenge is taking place on Sunday, June 25; join in with the Southend Raft Race. Entry for eight people is £200, which goes to Rotary Charities, with additional sponsorship going to the hospital.

Fundraising manager Elise Fleetwood, said: “Last year local people helped us raise almost a million pounds and with events such as these and the kind support of the people of Essex we know that 2017 is going to be just as an exciting year for fundraising here at Southend Hospital. Every penny raised really does make a difference to patients.” Call 01702 385337 or email fundraising@southend.nhs.uk