FAMILIES will step out in memory of loved ones while supporting Longfield - formerly known as the Cotswold Care Hospice - with the Solstice Walk.

Walkers can enjoy a 5km or 10km circular route around Minchinhampton Common on Friday, June 19.

Money raised from the event in June will help Longfield provide free specialist care to people across Gloucestershire.

Every year Longfield, based in Minchinhampton, supports more than 900 people in Gloucestershire who have a life-limiting illness.

Kelsey Bliss’ family will take part to say thank you for the support they and Kelsey received from the hospice charity.

Kelsey, from Stroud, who had cystic fibrosis, attended day therapy at Longfield.

“She described it as a space where she could be herself, where she could say what she thought and no one felt sorry for her,” said her mother Teresa Dougherty.

“It was an amazing place where she could relax, discuss her fears and make new friends.”

Kelsey was 23 when she died in July last year following a lung transplant. Longfield has gone on to help her family cope with her death.

The walk starts and finishes at Longfield in Burleigh Lane where there will be music, a band, children’s entertainment and a special memory arch.

“We are committed to supporting more people than every before but we can’t do it without the generous support of our community,” said Andrew Fletcher, Longfield’s new chief executive.

“It will be a wonderful way to mark the longest day of the year, enjoy the stunning views of the Stroud Valleys and to remember loved ones.”

Registration is £15 for adults or £7.50 for children. Under 5s go free and dogs are welcome. The walk starts from 6pm, 6.30pm and 7pm depending on the route you choose.

Entry includes a Solstice Walk T-shirt, ribbon to remember a loved one, bottle of water and a welcome pack.

To details please contact the hospice on 01453 886868, email events@longfield.org.uk. To register online go to www.longfield.org.uk/event/solstice-2015.