Tickets have gone on sale for people wanting to splash down a giant water slide in Colchester in aid of charity.

Cancer Research UK (CRUK) is bringing its SlideRider event to North Hill from 11am-5pm on Monday May 2, a bank holiday.

Thrill seekers are urged to buy a ticket early to avoid disappointment if they want to speed their way, head first if they want, down the 250m water slide on an inflatable.

People are asked to get sponsorship for the event to support CRUK’s Kids & Teens appeal.

Gemma Turpin, CRUK event manager, said: “We’re delighted to bring our SlideRider event to Colchester for the first time.

“It’s such a fun way to help a great cause, so we hope people will embrace this exhilarating new challenge and help make a splash in the fight against children’s cancers.

“Places are limited, so we’re urging families and big kids alike to book the ride of the summer right now.”

Annie Feltham, Colchester borough councillor for communities, added: “I’m hugely excited Colchester will be hosting the water slide. As well as making a splash for a good cause, it will be amazing to bring such a fantastically fun event to our town.”

To tie in with the event the High Street market will be opened for the first time on a bank holiday Monday, and there will be a family event in Castle Park.

Sliders must be aged eight or over and taller than 131cm.

To sign up visit www.cruk.org/sliderider.