A FAMILY from Cam were among hundreds who marked the longest day of the year along by stepping out to support a Gloucestershire hospice charity.

More than 300 walkers and dogs completed the 5km or 10km circular Solstice Walk across Minchinhampton Common near Stroud to raise money for Longfield.

For Lesley Gardner and her daughter Kerry Bratchell, it was their way of saying 'thank you' to Longfield.

The charity’s hospice at home team supported Lesley’s father Bill Rugman so that he could die at home.

“Longfield came to my home and helped me care for my dad in the last days of his life and there are no words to describe just how wonderful they are,” said Lesley, from Cam.

“This walk is quite a struggle for me as I have difficulty just walking to Tesco but I’m doing it for a very good cause.”

Lesley and Kerry have raised more than £700 in sponsorship.

Kate Hedges and her 16-year-old daughter Alice, from Cam, joined three friends to take part in the walk.

“We’re doing it to support a good cause and everyone knows someone who has received support from Longfield,” said Kate.

After completing the walk, families enjoyed food and live music at Longfield in Burleigh Lane.

They also spent time in the memory garden leaving ribbons in tribute to loved ones who have died.

Andrew Fletcher, the chief executive of Longfield, said: “Money raised will ensure we can continue to support those in the county would need us most.”

Longfield aims to maximise the life of people living in Gloucestershire diagnosed with a terminal illnesses.