Families, friends and community groups across Hitchin and Hertfordshire are being encouraged to pull on their trainers and prepare to get muddy this summer in support of Essex & Herts Air Ambulance.

The charity is calling on people to sign up for "Mission: Mud", a muddy obstacle course challenge taking place on Sunday, July 12 at Nuclear Wild Forest.

Sponsored by Utilize, the event is open to adults and children aged six and above, with participants able to choose between 60-minute and 90-minute sessions tackling climbing walls, giant slides, cargo nets, water obstacles and plenty of mud.

Organisers say the challenge is ideal for families, schools, sports clubs, colleagues and groups of friends looking for a fun summer activity while raising money for a life-saving cause.

Tickets start from £30, with participants also encouraged to raise at least £15 in sponsorship to support the charity's emergency medical service.

Essex & Herts Air Ambulance operates a 24-hour Helicopter Emergency Medical Service across Hertfordshire, Essex and surrounding areas, providing rapid critical care through teams of pilots, paramedics and specialist doctors.

The charity receives no government or lottery funding and relies entirely on donations and fundraising support from local communities.

Francesca Gillott, Events Manager at Essex & Herts Air Ambulance, said: "Mission: Mud is honestly so much fun. We had lots of laughter, plenty of mud and a brilliant sense of achievement at the end.

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"It's one of those challenges where you can do as much as you feel able to, cheer each other on and have a really memorable day together.

"What makes it even more special is knowing that every splash, climb and muddy crawl is helping to raise money for Essex & Herts Air Ambulance."

Participants will receive a medal, digital photos, hot showers, changing facilities, free parking and access to more than 25 obstacles.

The charity is also encouraging supporters to organise fundraising activities in the run-up to the event, including bake sales, quiz nights, school non-uniform days and workplace events.

Children can also take part in a "Coin Splat Collector Sheet" challenge to help reach their fundraising target.

Food and drink will be available for spectators throughout the day.

More information and sign-up details can be found via the Essex & Herts Air Ambulance Mission: Mud page.