Get on your marks as Race for Life events are set to return this year

People across the North East are being encouraged to look beyond lockdown by taking part in a charity fundraiser.

CancerResearchUKisaiming to return to the region with its Race for Life this year, but with socially-distanced measures in place to help keep participants safe.

Anyone who signs up this month can claim a special 30% off the entry fee by using the code JAN2021.

Money raised during the events will help scientists find new ways to prevent, diagnose and treat cancer, helping to save more lives.

FrancisKippax-Geary,Cancer Research UK’s event manager based in the North East, said: “All 400 mass-participationRaceforLifeeventsacross theUKwerecancelledlastyear to protect the country’s health during the 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.

“Every step our scientists take towards beating cancer relies on our supporters.

"OurRaceforLifeeventsare open to all and we’re sending a heartfelt 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

Cancer Research UK’s Race for Life events are returning this year.

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.Handsanitiserwillalso be provided at all events.

Francis added: “Although ‘Race’ features in the name, oureventsarenotcompetitive.

"Instead, ‘the Race for Life’ is about our doctors, nurses and scientists working as hard and fast as possible to help more people survive.

“Participants,allunitedina 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. Slow and steady still wins. For others, it’s a jog or a run.”

The Race for Life in Sunderland is on Sunday, May 30, at Herrington Country Park across 3k, 5k and 10k.

In Durham, there will be 3k and 5k races at St Leonard's Sports Fields on Sunday, June 27.

To enter, visit raceforlife. org