Family’s yellow pledge for Beatson
The Allens limber up for virtual challenge
A Tillicoultry family is hoping to turn Stirling and Clackmannanshire’s villages and towns yellow for a weekend in August.
The Allen family are looking forward to taking part in the Beatson Cancer Charity’s virtual 7th annual Off The Beatson Track event as a thank you for the support they have had following dad Russell’s own diagnosis with the disease.
The charity decided to host the mass participation event online and change to a virtual challenge to prioritise the health and safety of the community during the coronavirus pandemic.
The Allens are asking locals to join in on the weekend of August 22-23 as a way to continue raising funds for cancer research and its services.
The usual flagship event, a 10k (6.5miles) challenge is suitable for all ages and mobility and is guaranteed a great ‘feel-good’ day out.
This year should be no different with Beatson Cancer Charity hoping that supporters will continue their celebration with Off the Beatson Track.
It now means many can explore their local area from their doorstep instead of taking part in the usual city loop. Adult entry fees (with kids going free) will allow participants to gain exclusive access to prerecorded entertainment, playlist and celebrity commentary via the new Off the Beatson Track podcast, designed to help everyone on their way.
Mum Wendy Allen said: “Since my husband Russell was diagnosed with oesophageal cancer in November 2019, our family life has turned upside down with many visits to hospital for appointments and treatments following his major operation. We have somehow managed to stay positive throughout.
“Earmarking this day as a family is a big date in our diary as it means we are hopeful that it is a way to celebrate the end to cancer. We hope our local community will walk with us and join in.”
Wendy is thankful to Beatson Cancer Charity and has already raised a staggering £8,000 with son Alfie, aged 11, who organised a Beatson Brave Shave just before lockdown.
They are hoping by participating in this walk they will gain more sponsorship.
The charity’s community fundraising manage Maisie McCormick said: “The last six years has seen over 11,000 participants walk over 70,000 miles - making it West of Scotland’s biggest, best and most yellow sponsored walk.
“Each year, one-in-two people in West of Scotland are newly diagnosed with cancer. Proceeds for this event will be dedicated to extension of support services and continued investment in vital research at Beatson Cancer hospital. This is our biggest event of the year and we are extremely disappointed not to be able to hold it in the normal format, but I very much hope this virtual experience will be just as much fun and encourage even more supporters to sign up.”
To sign up visit www. beatsoncancercharity.org/ otbt. Everyone shall receive a t-shirt and specially designed medal.