Arthritis sufferers will be getting out the walking boots this weekend for a charity walk.

Most people know someone who has suffered from arthritis at some stage in their lives and the Action Arthritis Norwich Orthopaedic Walk is held to raise funds and awareness of the disease.

Established about 20 years ago, Action Arthritis is based in the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital's Orthopaedic Research Department.

The charity is organised by orthopaedic consultants and staff at the N&N and volunteers who work towards new treatments.

In the past few years they have achieved new, tried and tested, procedures to help ease the pain and suffering caused by the bone and joint related illness and other orthopaedic conditions, as well as caring for those suffering fractures and injuries.

On Sunday the walk is being held in the grounds of The Global Clinic at Colney Hall, starting from 12.30pm, with patients, families, friends and supporters invited to walk a sponsored mile alongside consultants, surgeons and nursing staff to raise funds for further research.

Honorary secretary and trustee of Action Arthritis, Trish Phillips, said: 'Our charity allows anybody in Norfolk to apply to us for funding if they are wanting to conduct research into arthritis or go on a course for education about arthritis if they can't afford it.

'We have the walk every two years and it is our main source of income.

'We are okay for money but our funding is always in demand, particularly with the University of East Anglia's medical school really having a big push into diseases which affect people in their old age at the moment.'

The fun event is open to all, including those with walking aids or wheelchairs, with a barbecue, stalls, jazz band, raffle, and other activities providing the entertainment.

Mrs Phillips is hoping for a good day, saying: 'We need as many people to help as possible. The main event is the mile walk, which we usually have lots of former patients who have benefited from orthopaedic treatment taking part in.'

If you would like to take part, apply for a sponsor form on 01603 286706 or email tracey.potter@nnuh.nhs.uk

Are you organising a big event in the Norwich area? Contact Local Life editor David Freezer on 01603 772418 or email david.freezer@archant.co.uk