Race For Life coming back to Shropshire in 2021

People across the region are being encouraged to look beyond lockdown by making a date to join Cancer Research UK’s Race for Life in Shropshire.

The charity’s much-loved events are aiming to return to the county later in the year but with socially distanced measures to help keep participants safe.

Covid-19 has caused a devastating loss of research funding. Cancer Research UK is predicting a staggering £300 million drop in income over the next three years which could put future medical breakthroughs at risk.

That’s why the charity is calling on men, women and children to fight back against the devastating disease by entering a Race for Life event. Money raised will help scientists find new ways to prevent, diagnose and treat cancer, helping to save more lives.

The Shropshire Race for Life events take place at Telford Town Park on May 30, Weston Park Pretty Muddy and Pretty Muddy Kids on May 22, and The Quarry Shrewsbury on June 20.

Kirsten Shore, Cancer Research UK’s events manager for Shropshire, said: “All 400 mass-participation Race for Life events across the UK were cancelled last year to protect the country’s health during the Covid-19 pandemic. So this year, more than ever, we need people to come together and help beat the disease.

“The truth is, Covid-19 has slowed us down. But we will never stop and we are absolutely determined to continue to create better cancer treatments for tomorrow.

Uplifting

“Every step our scientists take towards beating cancer relies on our supporters. Our Race for Life events are open to all and we’re sending a heart-felt message to everyone to come together in 2021.

“As always at our events the health and safety of participants, staff and volunteers is our top priority. It may be that events look a little different this year but we are working proactively with our venues and suppliers to deliver a socially-distanced but great experience.”

Participants will set off on the course either alone or in small socially-distanced groups. Hand sanitiser will also be provided at all events.

Kirsten explained: “Although ‘Race’ features in the name, our events are not competitive. Instead, ‘the Race for Life’ is about our doctors, nurses and scientists working as hard and fast as possible to help more people survive. We’ll ask participants to respect social distancing before, during and after the event. It means that this year people should refrain from hugging others at the finish line. But we promise our events will remain fun, colourful, emotional and uplifting.

“Participants, all united in a common cause to beat cancer, take part at their own pace. For some people, the Race for Life is literally a walk in the park.

“We hope that none of our Race for Life events are cancelled in 2021 and will do everything we can to keep people safe. If we do have to cancel any of our events we will let participants know as soon as possible and they will be entitled to a refund.”

Anyone who signs up this January can claim a special 30 per cent off the entry fee by using the code JAN2021.

To enter, visit raceforlife.org