More than 1,000 people have registered to take part in this year's penitential walk from Mellieha to Senglea on the night of Maundy Thursday.

The initiative, linking two localities dedicated to Our Lady, started in 2004 when Joseph Vella of Mellieha decided to walk with his son in law, on the night between Maundy Thursday and Good Friday. This has now turned into an annual pilgrimage in which hundreds participate. Last year more than 750 people joined in the 32 kilometres long. This year over a 1,000 people are expected to participate.

Four years ago Mr Vella introduced a collection for the Puttinu Cares Cancer Support Group. Last year, €14,000 were collected from the participants and several other sponsors. Participants this year are being asked to donate a minimum of €10.

The organisers said that everyone is invited to join in this walk starting from Misrah iz-Zjara tal-Papa, outside the Sanctuary of Our Lady, in Mellieħa. Departure time is 2:00am (Friday) but participants are being asked to be present at 1:30am.

They are expected to start arriving at Senglea at about 6 a.m.  although several decide to jog it all the way managing to cover the 32 kilometres in a little over two  hours. Participants usually keep trickling in until 07:30am.

Upon arrival many choose to enter the Parish Church of the Nativity of the Virgin Mary in Senglea to pray before the statue of Christ Redeemer, venerated at the same church.

Water stations will be available along the route. Minibuses will also be available along the route to pick up those who give up. There will be coaches at Senglea for the return trip. Medical staff will be on stand-by.

For further information and bookings contact Joseph Vella 99493643 or Charles Fenech 79068715.