THE NSPCC is calling for residents of Somerset to register and join hundreds of runners, swimmers and cyclists of all ages and abilities to race against the clock for 60 minutes by October 2.

Whether participants run, swim or cycle as part of a team or individually; outside or in the gym, it’s time to see how many miles can be clocked in the race against child abuse. Every mile passed goes toward helping us keep one million children safe.

The NSPCC’s community fundraising manager for Somerset, Anna Keir, said: "This event is a fun way for athletes in Somerset to achieve new personal bests or for novices to spend 60 minutes seeing how far they can go.

"The appeal is anyone can take part, so whether you are family, a team or an individual, the 60 Minute Challenge is your chance to make 60 minutes count."

A £25 donation could pay for a helpline counsellor to give an hour's support to an adult who's worried about a child, £150 could pay for a practitioner to deliver six hours of expert advice and guidance to parents at risk of neglecting their children, and £500 could go towards life-changing therapy to help a child recover from abuse and rebuild their life.

Registration for the NSPCC’s 60 Minute Challenge is free for all and adults can sign up and accompany on behalf of under 18’s.

To find out how to register, visit https://www.nspcc.org.uk/what-you-can-do/events/60-minute-challenge/