A new 75-mile charity walk along the National Forest Way is set to take place later this year.

The National Forest Trek, launched by the National Forest Company, National Arboretum and Defence Medical Rehabilitation Centre Benevolent Fund, will take place from 18 to 20 September.

The aim of the fully supported challenge event is to tell the charities’ story of remembrance, transformation and renewal, while raising funds to support their work.

Participants will make the 75-mile journey along the National Forest Way, stretching from Beacon Hill in Leicestershire to the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire.

John Everitt, chief executive of the National Forest Company, said: “The National Forest is the result of an ambitious and imaginative regeneration vision that has transformed a blackened landscape scarred by coal mining and heavy industry into swathes of green, home to a fantastic array of wildlife. We are continually investing alongside our partners to ensure the Forest remains a vibrant place of beauty for everyone to enjoy. It’s a fantastic example of how we can all live more sustainably, creating a lasting benefit for generations to come.”

The entry fee is £75, and participants are expected to raise a minimum of £400 to be split between the three charities. The route will be professionally supported with clear signage and regular refreshment stops. Overnight event villages at Ashby-de-la-Zouch and Rosliston Forestry Centre will offer camping, catering and other services to support participants.

Lt Col Tim Clarke, officer in command at the Defence Medical Rehabilitation Centre Benevolent Fund, said: “We step in to provide the extra help and support for patients that the public purse does not have the ability to provide. Our goal is to make the often difficult and traumatic road to rehabilitation a little easier and the knowledge that they remain in the thoughts of the Great British public is a hugely positive reminder that their selfless commitment to the armed forces is repaid when they are injured.”

Philippa Rawlinson, managing director of the National Memorial Arboretum, said: “Remembrance is an important human need and the cultural practices that support this need have evolved over the course of millennia. The National Memorial Arboretum is a place where people come to reflect and be inspired as they celebrate lives lived and remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice on behalf of others. We rely on the generosity of supporters to remain a free-to-enter site where people can come and discover the fascinating personal stories that are the driving force behind our site.”

Jack Bucker, trustee of the National Forest Trek, added: This exciting and transformative journey will offer a fantastic experience for everyone involved as they discover the awesome natural beauty of the National Forest. Whether you are planning on tackling the 75-mile challenge or the 5 km hike, every mile will be rewarding, aware that you’re raising essential funds for three amazing charities that call the National Forest their home.”

Details of all trek options can be found at www.nationalforesttrek.co.uk.