Tonight (Wednesday, December 21st) the NSPCC is asking people in Bristol to dust off their walking boots and to get into the festive spirit by taking part in the charity’s Walk for Children.

Walk for Children is a sponsored 5km walk where families, friends and colleagues can get together on the longest night of the year to raise money to support the NSPCC and Childline this Christmas.

A spokesperson for Ashton Gate said: “We are very proud to support the NSPCC’s vital work by lighting up green on December 21 for the ‘Walk for Children’ Christmas campaign.

“Christmas can be a difficult and challenging time for lots of young people, which is why Childline is such an important service in the darkest times. It is crucial that children know they always have someone to talk to and should never feel alone.

“We hope that turning Ashton Gate green will help increase awareness about NSPCC’s Childline services so they can continue to prevent abuse, help rebuild children’s lives and support families.”

On average, two children a minute contact Childline. At a time that should be magical for all children and young people, Childline counsellors will be receiving calls about abuse, neglect, self-harm, and anxiety; things no child should have to deal with.

Emma Hildesley, NSPCC Community Fundraising Manager for Bristol, Bath and Wiltshire said: “The community of Bristol is very much at the heart of NSPCC’s work and has been for over 135 years, supporting local children and families.

“Having support from a landmark venue like Ashton Gate is wonderful as we are united in our message that we are here for children and will continue to be so throughout the festive period.

“Our local volunteer Business Board are delighted to be starting their own Walk for Children outside Ashton Gate at 6pm and welcome anyone to join them. It is set to be a fun evening packed with lights, laughter and lots of carol singing!”

To sign up for Walk for Children and to see a list of local participating landmarks search Walk for Children on the NSPCC website.

For anyone taking part in Walk for Children in Bristol, please remember to share any photos on social media using #WalkforChildren.

Bristol’s Walk for Children event is set to start at Ashton Gate stadium from 6pm finishing at Clifton Mall roughly 40 minutes later.