A BLAENAU Gwent-based charity is encouraging people to sign up for a fun sponsored walk - wearing onesies - along the Brecon and Monmouthshire Canal this autumn.

Hospice of the Valleys is organising its fourth Canal Onesie Walk to raise funds for the charity.

The annual event usually attracts between 50 and 100 walkers and last year raised more than £2,000 for the hospice.

Now this year’s participants are being encouraged to wear their onesie for the walk. The attire is recommended, but not compulsory.

The 20 mile trek starts at Goytre Wharf, the eight mile walk from The Bridge End at Gilwern and the three mile walk from the Coach and Horses in Llangynidr – with all of them ending at the Red Lion pub in Llangynidr.

Two hospice ambassadors Byron Hayward, ex-Welsh rugby international and Scarlets coach, and Miss Blaenau Gwent 2015 Sophie Bettridge, will be attending to present a medal to each participant as they finish.

The event is on Sunday, September 20, and it is easy to register - telephone the hospice on 01495 717277 and ask for a form or pick one up from the hospice offices in Festival Drive, Ebbw Vale or any of the hospice’s charity shops.

Entry is free, and it is £5 for an event t-shirt.

Kevin Davidge, fundraiser for the hospice, said: "We hope as many people as possible will support this fun event in aid of our charity. The more people who join in, the more fun will be had."

The hospice is asking that participants do not drink alcohol during the event but there will be refreshments available to buy at the Red Lion in Llangynidr after the walk.

This year, the person to raise the most sponsor money will receive a prize – free entry for two to the West Midlands Safari and Leisure Park.

All profits go to the hospice, to help run its 24 hour a day, 365 day a year, specialist palliative care service for people in Blaenau Gwent who are suffering from life-limiting illnesses.