A three-year-old has raised more than £1000 by taking on a nighttime hike in support of her grandad last week.

Ashford preschooler Penelope Kerr participated in Pilgrim's Hospice's A Night to Shine on Friday for grandad Mick Lodge, who has been receiving care from the late-life charity.

The 61-year-old was diagnosed with lung and oesophageal cancer in November 2017, and despite beneficial radio- and chemotherapy treatment recently required Pilgrims Hospice support.

Penelope - who has raised £1100 on her JustGiving page - was inspired by her mum Joanne, who completed a charity firewalk in March to raise £335

Ahead of the event, Joanne said: “Penelope and her 'DamDam' came to watch and she really enjoyed it, she loved the atmosphere. So when I saw the A Night to Shine walk I asked her if she would like to do it, and she said yes and that she would walk for her DamDam."

“Penny’s daddy and I will be walking alongside her but this is her challenge and we couldn’t be prouder.

"At 3 years old she is the most caring, loving and hilarious little girl who loves her DamDam to the moon and back.

"She’s raised so much already and the sponsors keep on coming in. We are so proud of our daughter and cannot wait to see her shine on the night.”

She noted that Mr Lodge is receiving regular check-ups at the facility, but will be attending more after a recent diagnosis that he has six months left to live.

Regarding the service, she said: "His nurse Rhiannon has been absolutely amazing and we are so thankful for her.

"We know how important the hospice is for patients and families, so we just want to give back whatever we can as we know we are going to be using their services a lot.

"By getting Penelope involved too it will show her that the hospice really is a wonderful place.”

On the night, the group of walkers were surprised by theeir family, who came from across the country to cheer them on.

Mick also came to show his support, having recently come out of hospital.

Joanne said: "The walk went fantastic, Penelope walked so much of it with the occasional carry in the backpack.

"We are so proud of Penelope for not only the amount she has raised but also for raining awareness for the hospice.

"We are also very grateful for Dad's nurse Rhiannon who also came to cheer us on. The night was emotional yet magical."

The five-mile walks took place in Ashford, Canterbury and Broadstairs, with Ashford's starting and finishing at the Julie Rose stadium.

To donate to Penny's fundraiser, which is still online and running, click here.

Read more: All the latest news from Ashford

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