Relay runners join cancer fight
Fundraiser is on track for success
Fundraisers will be on their marks for this weekend’s Relay for Life in East Kilbride.
After months of planning and fundraising, this Friday will see the start of the annual Cancer Research UK Relay For Life.
And this year will be particularly special as it is their 20th year and they will be celebrating being the longest-running relay in Scotland.
Teams from across East Kilbride and the wider area will set up camp for 24 hours at the John Wright Sports Centre, ready to enjoy some fantastic activities.
Over 200 people have registered to take part and the committee are looking forward to welcoming hundreds more visitors in support of the work of Cancer Research UK.
The teams have been fundraising throughout the year to support the vital work of the charity which supports thousands of scientists, doctors and nurses who are dedicated to saving more lives by preventing, controlling and curing all cancers.
Team members take turns walking round the track to represent the fact that the fight against cancer never stops.
The event kicks off at 7pm on Friday when the East Kilbride Pipe Band and the survivor guests of honour set the teams off on the first lap of their 24-hour challenge.
Visitors are welcome to the start. The teams will have barbecues, refreshments and a pyjama party going on during the evening. As dusk falls, the atmosphere quietens for the Candle of Hope ceremony to begin.
This is the most poignant part of Relay For Life when specially-made candle bags, decorated with touching messages in memory or celebration of loved ones, are lit up around the track.
A special ceremony with poems, songs and the release of balloons takes place at 10.30pm before the teams set off to walk again.
Saturday is the event’s own ‘gala day’ with a host of fun activities on offer.