HUNDREDS of walkers are braving the heavy rain and cold wind in tribute to the dedicated work of nurses, staff and volunteers at Sobell House hospice. 

Organisers say the 350-strong turnout for the annual Sobell House Winter Walk at Blenheim Palace is the best in its four-year history.

The waterproof-clad walkers will complete a four-mile tour of the palace grounds to raise money for the hospice - which the Oxford Mail is supporting in our annual campaign.

Families and friends whose loved ones have been helped by the hospice have each paid £15 to join the walk.

They include brothers Jonathan and Mark Blackmore, who lost their father at Christmas and have been joined by about 15 family members to pay tribute to the care he received during his time at Sobell House.

Donate to our Sobell '100 days of care' campaign here