Matthew SparkesA charity is urging people to step forward and donate their time to an event which will make life easier for those in Norfolk battling cancer.Matthew Sparkes

A charity is urging people to step forward and donate their time to an event which will make life easier for those in Norfolk battling cancer.

The Starlight Walk raises cash for Macmillan Cancer Support by asking people to walk 13 miles around the city's ring road at midnight.

It relies on the support of hundreds of walkers, but also on dozens of volunteers who ensure that everyone stays safe and comfortable during the event.

Most of the volunteers in the past have been friends of friends of Starlight Walk founder Jane Rumball, who works at the UEA Sportspark.

But as the event grows ever larger the need for volunteers grows with it - and organisers have put out a call for more people to help.

People are needed on the night of the walk, June 18, helping to marshal the route, meet and greet participants as they arrive and to help set up the course.

But even if you cannot attend on the night there is still a chance to help out.

Volunteers are also needed to publicise the event and get more people involved, distributing leaflets in their town or village.

Jenni Maxwell, fundraising manager for Macmillan Cancer Support, said: 'Volunteers play an essential role at the Starlight Walk, the event simply couldn't go ahead without them.'

'Volunteering is rewarding, you get to meet some great people, develop your skills and you will definitely have fun.

'Not to mention you will also be playing a pivotal role in helping to raise funds for local people living with cancer.'

'We would be grateful for any time people can spare, even if it is only a couple of hours,' she said.

The Starlight Walk is also looking for an office assistant, who would help with PR and promotional work and gain valuable experience at the same time.

For more information on how to get involved visit www.starlightwalknorwich.co.uk/volunteer or call 01603 593779.

Registration for the Starlight Walk costs �25 and through the support of sponsors, including Bennetts Electrical, every penny of that goes directly to Macmillan.

For more information on the event or to register to take part, visit www.starlightwalknorwich.co.uk.

Route marshal - work in pairs along the route to give directions and encouragement to walkers.

Meet and greet volunteer - help participants as they arrive, man various stalls and give walkers a cheer as they set off.

Set-up volunteer - construct the start/finish point and course before participants arrive.

Finish volunteer - cheer participants as they return from the walk, give them certificates and guide them to the caf� for a well deserved cup of tea.

Promotion volunteer - help get people involved in the Starlight Walk and raise more money