HELP save the Jurassic Coast path, one of the area’s most valuable and scenic assets – that’s the plea from a body set up to aid people’s enjoyment of it.

The South West Coast Path Association is organising a special event to celebrate its 40th anniversary next spring, with the aim of funding improvement projects along the route of the entire cliff top path which runs through Cornwall, Devon, Dorset and Somerset.

The 630-mile path is estimated to generate more than £300 million for the regional economy each year, with walking one of the most popular activities by visitors, including sponsored walks. But in recent years funding for its maintenance has shrunk.

To raise money for small but significant improvement projects, over and above general maintenance, SWCPA is launching “The Great South West Walk – putting 40 years of love back into the Coast Path!”

The group is drafting in the help of a large number of countryside supporting organisations including the South West Coast Path Team, National Trust, county councils and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty Teams, along with members of local walking groups and numerous tourism businesses.

The event next April/May aims to encourage at least 30 walkers each day across a series of sponsored walks, broken down into 56 legs and done in relay to cover the entire path.

The south coast walk starts at Poole on April 3, with the north coast walkers trekking from Minehead on April 16, with a birthday party at Land’s End on May 7. Each leg will be guided by local experts, rangers and path wardens.

“We want to encourage as many people as possible to take part for a half day or full day walk, through to a number of legs over several days, building a walking holiday,” said Brian Panton, chairman of SWCPA.

“Whether people are walking long or short distances, coming from near or far, we hope that thousands of people will take part to support this spectacular coast line.”

Walkers will be asked to raise £50 of sponsorship each, so that further funding can be obtained from relevant organisations by matched giving.

They can specify which project their sponsorship supports, providing funding is available.

The target is to raise £250,000 enabling over 40 improvement projects spread along the route of the entire path to be completed during 2013.

For more information, or to sign up to take part visit the website greatsouthwestwalk.co.uk.