Help needed to run Relay event

Gary Morgan

02 May 2008

MORE help is needed after organisers of this year's Redditch Relay for Life were forced to change location due to overwhelming interest in the event.
The fund-raiser has, for the last couple of years, rolled onto the Abbey Stadium, but with unprecedented numbers already signed up to take part, a new venue had to be found.
Step forward SE Davis & Son, who have agreed to lend their 16-acre site in Edgioake Lane, Astwood Bank.
Lorraine O'Malley, chair of the event which aims to raise thousands of pounds for Cancer Research UK, expressed her delight at securing a more suitable venue, but added more volunteers would now be needed to mark out a track and help on the day.
She said: "Redditch Borough Council has been very helpful in trying to plan things at the Abbey Stadium.
"But logistically it became impossible to keep teams together, which is what gives Relay for Life its community spirit.
"Luckily SE Davis came to the rescue."
The event, which runs for 24 hours from 12noon on June 7, will follow the same format as in previous years, including being kicked off by a Survivors' Lap of Honour.
Teams must then ensure one member is on the track at all times throughout the 24 hours, either running, jogging, walking or even crawling.
Entertainment, including music and games for the kids, will also go ahead as planned as will a late night Candle of Hope ceremony - the most poignant part of the fund-raiser.
Specially made Candle of Hope bags are decorated with touching tributes, either in memory or in celebration of loved ones.
They are filled up with sand, lit with candles and placed around the edge of the track, burning through the night to light the way for Relay participants.
Meanwhile, the 'Before You Go Go, Choose Life' team, which competed last year, has announced their 80s Party Night this month is sold out.
The night, on May 16 at the White Hart in Headless Cross, will feature a two-hour set from Heart FM DJ Steve Denier.
Louise Baker, from the team, said they were hoping the night would help them raise around £15,000 for Cancer Research UK.
To dedicate a Candle of Hope, download a form from www.cancerresearchuk.org/relay, or to volunteer to assist on the day call Lorraine on 07768 714498.

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