GIN lovers are being given the chance to enjoy their favourite tipple while supporting charity as part of a special festival in Berkley next year.

The Berkeley Gin Festival is being organised by 43-year-old Helen Cerullo, who is fundraising for the Ectopic Pregnancy Trust, and will be running for the charity in the Virgin London Marathon in April.

The festival and the marathon mark 10 years since Helen experienced two ectopic pregnancies, a life-threatening condition affecting one-in-80 pregnancies in the UK.

She said that during that time the trust supported her “through the emotional turmoil of fear, anger, sadness and guilt,” instead offering her hope.

“In fundraising for the trust, I am combining two things I really love, running and gin,” she said.

“I am really hoping the festival will be a success. It has been a steady progression to get it organised, so it would be nice to bring the community together in support of a charity I am very passionate about.

“They supported me during a very difficult time in my life and it is my chance to give something back.”

Taking place at Berkeley Primary School on Saturday, February 3 from 6pm, guests will have a total of 12 different gins to try, with real ale and soft drinks also available.

Running the marathon, her first attempt at the distance, she said: “I am very excited, but it is going to be a huge challenge. I started running shortly after my ectopic pregnancies and while I have done some half marathons in the past, this is my first try at the big one.

“Having started my training in October, I have discovered some stunning scenery while I have been out running the streets and lanes around Berkeley.”

Helen initially set a target of fundraising £1,500 for the charity from the marathon, but with the festival tickets now on sale, she said she hoped to smash that target.

Tickets for the festival are £10 each and include a souvenir gin glass and your first drink. The cash-only bar will be £5 provides a single measure of gin, garnish and a premium mixer.

Tickets available from Helen on 01453 511847 or Lisa Palmer on 07885 881145.

To sponsor Helen in her fundraising quest, visit uk.virginmoneygiving.com/HelenCerullo