THE popular Race for Life is set to return to Tatton Park this summer following a difficult year for Cancer Research UK.

Last year's event was cancelled due to coronavirus, and the pandemic has hit the charity's fundraising efforts hard.

Cancer Research UK predicts a staggering £300 million drop in income over the next three years, which it says could put future medical breakthroughs at risk.

So to help the charity get 2021 off to the best possible start, runners of all abilities are being encouraged to sign up for this year's Race for Life.

Caitlin Holme, event manager for Cheshire at Cancer Research UK, said: "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 and we are absolutely determined to continue to create better cancer treatments for tomorrow.

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

"Our Race for Life events are open to all and we’re sending a heart-felt message to everyone to come together in 2021."

Organisers are putting safety at the top of the priority list ahead of the event's return, with Covid-secure measures being put in place.

Participants will set off on the course either alone or in small, socially-distanced groups, and hand sanitiser will be provided with participants encouraged to use it before and after the event.

Caitlin said: "It may be that events look a little different this year but we are working proactively with our venues and suppliers to deliver a socially-distanced but great experience.

"We’ll ask participants to respect social distancing before, during and after the event.

"It means that this year people should refrain from hugging others at the finish line. But we promise our events will remain fun, colourful, emotional and uplifting."

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The Tatton Park Race for Life will take place on June 26 and 27, and is open to participants of all ages, genders and abilities.

Anyone who signs up this January can claim a special 30 per cent off the entry fee by using the code JAN2021.

To enter, visit raceforlife.org