'Relay for Life' (From Witney Gazette)

'Relay for Life'

3:34pm Thursday 22nd February 2007 in Witney By Tim Hughes

VOLUNTEERS are needed to organise an active fundraising event in the Witney area.

Cancer Research UK is appealing for people to help organise the first Relay for Life event in the town.

Relay For Life involves teams of friends, colleagues or family members getting together to relay around a track, taking turns to walk the course for between 12 and 24 hours. The events are designed to celebrate the lives of those touched by cancer and raise funds for research.

Nicola Hunter, a fundraiser for Cancer Research UK, said: "Relay For Life is an unforgettable experience. It raises money for a fantastic cause, it celebrates those who have survived cancer and it enables friends and family to spend time together.

"We hope to have several new Relay for Life events in Oxfordshire, and if you want to be part of a volunteer committee, or want to start your own event, we will happily support you."

Each event starts with a so-called 'Survivors' Lap of Honour', with cancer survivors walking the first lap as a testimony to progress made in cancer research. In the evening, every Relay holds a Candle of Hope Ceremony, in which people are invited to dedicate a candle to those who have died from cancer, or to celebrate the lives of those who have survived the disease.

Local people are encouraged to come along to the event to show their support and participate in the ceremonies. When not walking, teams can enjoy a picnic, play games or enjoy music, and dance performances or sport.

To find out more about Relay for Life, visit www.relay.org.uk, or contact Nicola Hunter, on 01865 716655.