A POPULAR fundraising event is set to change slightly this year as determined supporters look to Race for Life at home.

Organiser of Race for Life, Cancer Research UK, has been forced to postpone its events in Spring and Summer due to the pandemic.

Events that normally take place in Southampton, Portsmouth, Winchester and Basingstoke have been delayed, worsening an already “devastating” loss of income for the charity.

Now though, people from across the county have vowed to continue raising funds with their own 5k from close to their home.

Fundraisers will take to their nearest green space this April, either alone or in a small socially distanced group, to continue the effort to beat cancer.

Cancer Research UK is predicting a £300 million drop in income over the next three years, which it claims could put future medical break through’s at risk.

Jenny Makin, spokesperson for the charity said however: “Even whilst we’re still apart, we can unite against cancer.

“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. But we can’t do it alone. 

“We need as many people as possible across the county to join us, to stand united and do something extraordinary to help beat cancer.”  

Cancer Research UK’s Race for Life consists of a 3K, 5K, 10K, Pretty Muddy and Pretty Muddy Kids event raising millions every year.

A live broadcast on the charities Facebook and Instagram pages on April 24 will include an energiser from a fitness expert as well as messages of support from people who have been through cancer. 

Organisers are also inviting participants to share photos and videos on social media using the hashtag #RaceatHome.

Dates have now been confirmed for the postponed events that will take place in Southampton on September 18, with Winchester’s 3k and 5k set for August 29.

Jenny added: “We’re constantly monitoring the Covid-19 situation and are working hard to move our mass participation Race for Life events to the autumn.

“We’d love to invite as many people as possible to Race for Life at Home this spring, then physically come together in the autumn.”

People can visit raceforlife.org to enter Race for Life at Home for £5 then receive a Race pack which includes a medal.