AN epic 52km trek around the Isle of Wight will raise funds for Mountbatten Hampshire in memory of a much-loved Southampton family man, sportsman and former doorman.

Ash Bennette is taking on the ultra walk in honour of his best friend Paul Ferris, who passed away at the West End hospice in 2017 aged 44 after battling a rare form of cancer.

Ash took part in a 25km ultra walk along the Jurassic Coast in 2019 and will take on the longer trek, which includes 1960 meters of hills, on May 1.

Ash told the Daily Echo: "Paul was my best friend. I miss him dearly and can think of no better way to honour his memory while giving something back to an incredible charity."

A cherished husband, father, brother, son and friend, Paul was also a talented cricketer, footballer and golfer who played for Langley Manor and Southamptonshire Cricket Clubs and was goalkeeper for Lowford and later Baddesley Veterans.

A sales account manager by day and doorman at city venues like the Toad in the Park, Square Balloon, Brannigans and Chicago Rock Cafe by night, Paul, who was known as Pam to his army of friends, was hugely popular. He was well known for being the loudest player on the pitch and a caring clown who made everyone laugh and would do anything for anyone.

Mountbatten Hampshire provides vital care and support for people with life-limiting illnesses and their families in Southampton and West Hampshire.

The team there provided huge support to Paul's beloved wife Cath and their family in his final weeks and beyond. He was a loving dad to Phoebe, Olly and Cath’s daughter Ellen Stedman, who he classed as his own.

Donate to Ash's fundraiser at justgiving.com/fundraising/ash-bennette1