THEY gathered in memory of a young woman who suffered a terrible death.

But Jo's Big Beanie was anything but a sad occasion.

More than 220 people yesterday took part in the sponsored walk dedicated to Jo Guy who was strangled by her boyfriend at their home in Eastleigh last year. She would have been 31 in June.

Yesterday's event, which raised £8,000 for victims of domestic violence, was a celebration of Jo's life with much laughter and fun and that, according to her mum Sue Middleton, is just what Jo would have wanted.

"She would have been amazed and very happy to have seen so many people here in her memory. She would be having a good laugh. It just shows how popular she was."

Jo's friend, Karen Stevens, 32, of Portsmouth, agreed: "Jo would have loved it."

Sue, 54, said the aim of the event had been to increase awareness of domestic violence as well as raising cash for Southampton Women's Aid.

"It needs to be brought out into the open more. Jo's death has left a boy without his mum, her family shattered and friends and work colleagues devastated. Women need to know that they can get help from charities like Southampton Women's Aid and they don't need to live in fear."

She said they may hold another event next year to help the city charity.

Walkers had the option of three walks, totalling four and a half miles, around the Royal Victoria Country Park at Netley, near Southampton.

Among those taking part was Nicky Simmons, 32, of Wimpson Lane, Millbrook. She said: "This is something close to my heart. I have been in a relationship that was difficult to get out of. I was lucky to get away."

Her friend, Mandy Birch, 33, of Studland Close, Millbrook, added: "No woman deserves to end up like Jo. People should be more aware of what is going on."

Domestic violence is an issue that the police insist they take seriously. PC Eileen Speck and Maryann Attard-Charrett, both work at the domestic violence unit in Eastleigh.

PC Speck said: "We are here to show support for the victims of domestic violence. We want the public to know we are here to help. Domestic violence is a crime, that we will investigate and take positive action."

PC Attard-Charrett said: "We look at every single domestic violence incident. It is not true to say the police are not interested."

All proceeds will go to Southampton Women's Aid which hopes to secure another refuge this year. Tanya Gover, refuge co-ordinator, estimates some 150 woman, many with families, are turned away every year because of a lack of space.

"The day has brought domestic violence into the public eye. It's very brave of the family to be so public about it," she said.

Gavin Henty, 24, used a telephone wire to strangle Joanne. He is now serving life behind bars after being jailed in March this year, with a recommendation that he serves at least 25 years.

Anyone experiencing domestic violence can call Southampton Women's Aid on 02380 338881.