A MAN is taking part in the Tetbury Woolsack races in memory of his mother and stepfather.

James Watson and members of his family had often talked about doing the race, when drinks were flowing, but the following morning with clearer hears they always thought better of it.

But after James’ mother and stepfather, Peggie and Alick Whittle, from Tetbury, died within a matter of weeks of each other, James and other members of the family decided to take on the gruelling race.

Together they are raising money for Longfield, the charity whose Hospice at Home nurses cared for Peggie and Alick in their final weeks.

James said: "My stepfather had been diagnosed with cancer and was quite poorly but it was a real shock that he went so quickly after my mother.

“Longfield provided the most incredible end of life care for them both.

"The nurses were true angels and made a very difficult time for all of us so much more bearable.”

James will take on the race with relatives Henry and Joe Webster and Tom O’Brien.

The boys have named their team Merlewood Magic, Merlewood being the name of Alick and Peggie’s original family home, a name that the couple took with them to every home they shared over their 40 years together.

And they will pass within yards of Peggie and Alick’s former home just off Gumstool Hill on the day as family from both sides cheer them on.

“My mother and Alick would have loved seeing us do this,” James says. “It will be a celebration of them and to show our appreciation for Longfield.”

You can donate at www.justgiving.com/fundraising/peggiealick