The Focus on Imaging PhotoPLOD Challenge 40-mile night walk has been taking place since 1976 and over the years has raised hundreds of thousands of pounds for worthwhile causes.

It is aimed at anyone and everyone who is game for a challenge – and walking 40 miles through the night and day along the South Downs is certainly a challenge!

Starting at midnight at Steyning, teams of six or more brave-hearted friends and support drivers, set off under the stars in a blaze of noise and excitement through Steyning High Street to the start of the trail.

Even at dead of night there is normally some light from the clear sky and the summer moon as the energetic trail walkers wade their way up to the Devils Dyke. From here they go over to Ditchling Beacon and then to the Newmarket Inn near Lewes, where at nearly half way, weary walkers can enjoy bacon butties and a change of clothes as sunrise appears and the challenge continues.

After a hearty meal, walkers continue through four more checkpoints at Rodmell, Firle, Alfriston and Seven Sisters, where the gruelling yet beautiful final leg – the Seven Sisters cliff walk – takes walkers to the celebratory finish at Birling Gap!

The fun begins on the night of Friday June 13 and finishes on Saturday morning, June 14.