MARK the longest day of the year by taking part in a sponsored walk in aid of Cotswold Care Hospice.

Supporters can take part in the Solstice Walk on Friday, June 20 in memory of a loved one.

The evening country walk across the Minchinhampton Common, near Stroud, will start and finish at the hospice grounds and be open to everyone.

Mum Angela Pearce and her family are taking part in the walk to remember daughter Vicky Wakefield-Heath who died last year from cancer at the age of 26.

Vicky’s 18-month-old son Spencer lives with Angela and her husband Ron in Stonehouse.

“I cannot put into words the difference the wonderful hospice staff made to Vicky, her baby son Spencer and myself,” said Angela.

Cotswold Care Hospice at Home nurses helped Angela and her family fulfil Vicky’s wish to die at home.

“For Vicky, she had confidence knowing the nurses would be popping in not only to help with her care but also to have a natter,” said Angela.

“I will always be thankful to them all for helping to make her final days less frightening and less stressful.”

Angela, who was Vicky’s carer and looks after Spencer, received support from the hospice.

“I could not have got through it all without their loving support and care both before and after Vicky died. The complementary therapy was a massive help,” she said.

The routes are 5km or 10km, dogs are welcome, starts at 6pm.

Registration is £15 for adults, £7.50 for children. Under five go free. Entry includes a Solstice Walk T-shirt, ribbon to remember a loved one, bottle of water, a welcome pack and a complimentary glass of fizz on return.

At the hospice in Burleigh Lane there will be live music, children’s entertainment, food and a bar.

“We know that many people experience their longest, darkest nights when caring for loved ones nearing the end of their lives,” said hospice chief executive Jules Eaton.

“Help us to support them on their darkest nights, whatever the time of year.”