SUPPORTERS of an Oxford hospice have been invited to join in the first key fundraiser of an 'exciting' year.

Sobell House Hospice has encouraged people to take part in its annual Blenheim Palace Winter Walk this Sunday.

The event sees walkers stride around the venue's impressive grounds in Woodstock.

About 300 participants join in last year, helping to raise more than £5,000.

Palliative care specialists Sobell House, based at the Churchill Hospital site in Headington, continues to rally funds for its ongoing expansion plan.

Dominique Cadiou, head of fundraising at Sobell, said: "This is the fourth year that we've been fortunate enough to invite our supporters and the wider public to enjoy the walk and admire the beautiful gardens at Blenheim.

"The walk is a great event for us and perfect for burning off those festive calories - and all for a good cause."

The walk will start and finish at the palace's Pleasure Gardens and is suitable route for people of all ages and abilities.

It starts at 10.30am and costs £16 per person, with under 12s admitted for free.

There is no requirement to gain sponsorship, though it is welcomed.

Ms Cadiou added: "We are in the third year of a four-year plan to invest £9m to grow the level of end of life care that our team offers.

"The fundraising has been going well and we are excited about what this year can bring.

"Events like these will really help us move closer towards our target."

The expansion includes a new extension at the hospice, for which building work is ongoing.

It will house facilities including dementia-friendly rooms and a lymphoedema clinic.

The route spans for about four miles and is mainly flat, with people able to complete the journey at their own pace.

To register a place on the Winter Walk, visit sobellhouse.org/winterwalk.