A WREXHAM mum who lost her son suddenly in his sleep a decade ago is encouraging people to back a charity's annual canal walk event.

The 12th annual Llangollen Canal Walk, sponsored by Principality Building Society, will take place on Sunday, March 12.

It will see walkers join a special 10-mile walk taking in the stunning scenery, including the world-famous Pontcysyllte Aqueduct.

Encouraging people to sign up for this year’s event is Jane Williams from Wrexham whose son Evan died suddenly in his sleep 10 years ago, weeks before his 13th birthday.

Jane and the family have been supported by Hope House ever since and she has been walking the Llangollen Canal Walk for many years to support the hospices.

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Jane said: "Evan had no illness at all. He was fit and healthy and he simply went to bed and died in his sleep.

“I found him when I went to wake him in the morning. It was a huge shock for us all. I can honestly say if we hadn’t had Hope House I don’t know what we would have done.

“By walking the Llangollen Canal Walk and supporting the hospices you’ll be making sure families like mine continue to get the support when they need it the most.”

Starting at the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct walkers will follow a marshalled five miles along the canal to The Poachers at Chirk.

After a comfort stop and goody bag, everyone will return along the same route to cross the aqueduct for the second time where they will get their hands on a colourful limited edition 2023 medal.

Fundraiser Cat Dowdeswell said: “This wonderful event is guaranteed to put a smile on your face and a spring in your step this March. Bring along friends, family, colleagues and those four-legged friends and embrace the great outdoors.

“We have already sold more than half the places for the canal walk, which is absolutely incredible.

“This event is extremely popular and has always been a sell out, so make sure you sign up and get your tickets via the Hope House website to avoid disappointment.”

Tickets for the walk are £10 for adults and £5 for children.