A HISTORIC Oxfordshire landmark will provide the backdrop for a six-mile stroll for a hospice this weekend.

Sobell House will stage its annual Winter Walk at Blenheim Palace on Sunday, and has invited its community of supporters to take part.

The walk, now in its fifth year, leads participants of all ages and abilities on a trail around the Woodstock home’s impressive grounds.

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This year a record number of more than 400 people have registered, including Lynne Ness, whose mum Jill died at the Headington hospice in November.

She said: “Although she was only at Sobell for one night, the care she received from everyone was incredible.

“I cannot put into words how pleased my sisters and dad were that she made it to Sobell for her final day, as it made her passing that much more bearable.”

The Winter Walk, which starts at 10am, is wheelchair-accessible and dogs and pushchairs are also welcome.

Blenheim Palace. Picture taken during the Sobell House Winter Walk by Damian Halliwell Blenheim Palace. Picture taken during the Sobell House Winter Walk by Damian Halliwell

Cara Waller, events manager at Sobell, said she hopes to see 500 people take part this year.

She said: “It’s a fantastic chance to catch up with friends and get active in the New Year, and the support of the public is vital to the hospice.

“The walk takes in stunning views of the Column of Victory, the lakes and woodlands, and, of course, the palace.”

Tickets cost £20 for adults, including Blenheim entry and a hot drink, and £10 for children aged 12 and under.

Children aged three or younger can attend for free.

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Guy Lemon will also be among the walkers, alongside family members including his children, aged 10 and seven.

The lawyer, from Wootton near Woodstock, said Sobell House supported his family after his late wife Rebecca Lemon was diagnosed with cancer.

She died in May 2015 aged 41, having received help from the hospice’s community specialist palliative care team.

Mr Lemon, 47, said: “Sobell was a really valuable support for us - the whole family benefitted from their excellent services.

“This will be our fourth time on the walk. We do it in memory of Rebecca but also to help raise funds for the hospice, and raise the profile of the fantastic work they do.”

To sign up, visit eventbrite.co.uk and search for ‘Sobell House Winter Walk’.

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