People in and around Lowestoft are being urged to put their best feet forward by joining in the town's largest Waterwalk charity event to date on Sunday.

So far, at least 224 people have signed up to take part in the Waterwalk, along Lowestoft seafront, to raise money for Cancer Research UK.

It is the largest number of people to participate in the annual walk so far, and organisers hope that many more people will be inspired to sign up on the day to join in the fun.

Last year, 170 people took part, raising �7,000 for Cancer Research UK, and organisers Dee Chapman and James Muir confidently predict that, because of the large number of people signing up for next week's walk, the �10,000 fund-raising barrier will be smashed.

Mrs Chapman, 39, from Norwich, and Mr Muir, from Leiston, and who both work for Essex and Suffolk Water in Lowestoft, set up the Waterwalk as they realised there was nothing in the area to mirror events such as the Race for Life and Relay for Life to help the fight against cancer.

As well as doing either a three or five mile walk, there will also be chance to people to remember loved ones who have died from cancer during a Message of Hope ceremony at the end of the Waterwalk with a poignant balloon release.

Mrs Chapman, describing why people should sign up to take part, said: 'Everyone knows someone who has been effected by cancer at some point, and perhaps have even had it themselves.

'The Waterwalk is a lovely fun way to help Cancer Research UK by raising money, and it has become a community event.

'It has slowly grown every year, and people who have taken part tell their friends and family 'why don't you come along with me and join in?' We are hoping to get raise �10,000 this year – which would be great.'

The previous four Waterwalks have raised more than �20,000 for Cancer Research UK.

Tod Sullivan, mayor of Lowestoft, said: 'I am delighted to see a charitable exercise that combines staying healthy, raising money and enjoying the Lowestoft coast.

'I am delighted to support this event, which raises money to help people in the greatest need across the UK and locally.'

The first people taking part in the Waterwalk will set out from 2.15pm on Sunday. It costs �5 per person to entry and a team of five can enter for �20.

To register in advance visit www.waterwalk.co.uk or call 01502 534005. People can register on the day.