Posted on: Friday 21 June 2024
Pontypool Park is set to host the 7th annual Cancer Research UK Relay for Life event next month.
Nineteen teams have signed up to take part in the 24-hour event, which is aiming to raise over £50,000 to help in the fight against cancer.
This year, a team from Torfaen Council will be taking part for the first time. Team captain and the council's election manager Caroline Genever-Jones said: "Thirty-five colleagues have signed up to be part of the team and others have said they will join us during the event.
"Everyone who is taking part has been touched by cancer in some way and we're pleased to be able to support Cancer Research in this way."
The relay starts at 11am on Saturday 6 July and will see teams take it in turns to run, jog or walk themed laps around the park until 11am the following day.
More than 50 craft, food and sweet stalls will be available for visitors to enjoy, as well as a dog show, games and music from local talents.
Two scientists from Cancer Research will also be in attendance for people to discuss the science behind CRUK's work.
At 9:30pm, the event will pause for a Candle of Hope ceremony at the bandstand where participants will light tealight candles in tribute to anyone affected by cancer.
The candles will then be displayed along the route in bags, which can be purchased from the Relay for Life marquee and decorated in memory of a loved one.
Leanne Powell, Volunteer Event Organiser and Chair, said: "Relay is about creating a cancer community for our area. A group of people who pull together throughout the year for the same cause - to support each other, spread hope and raise funds to beat cancer.
“It’s a little late to register a team for this year’s event, but we welcome everyone in the local community to come along on the day to support and to experience the magic that is Relay. It might even inspire you to enter a team in next year's event.”
The Pontypool Park Relay is one of only two relay events in Wales and has raised nearly £500,000 since it began in 2016.
People are encouraged to use public transport or active travel routes to attend the event, but parking is available In Pontypool Park and nearby overflow car park.
For more information about the Relay or to make a donation, visit:
Relay For Life - Pontypool 2024 - JustGiving