RUNNERS from Colchester and beyond are being urged to sign-up to take part in an "inspirational" road race which last year raised tens of thousands of pounds for charity
The annual Colchester Half Marathon, which is organised by The Robin Cancer Trust, is scheduled to take place on March 17 and will see participants pound pavements across the city.
Registrations for the 13.1-mile event, supported by the Running Colchester community, remain open and organisers are now once again encouraging joggers commit to the day.
Toby Freeman, Robin Cancer Trust founder and boss said: "The Colchester Half Marathon is one of the biggest events in the Essex race calendar and a flagship community event for the city - we're so grateful for all the support in making it happen.
"It’s inspirational to see runners cross the finish line - whether it's achieving their first half-marathon, a personal best, or in aid of their favourite charity.
"The funds raised from this event will help us continue our life-saving work in the community - reaching young people in schools, colleges, and universities with our award-winning cancer awareness campaigns, whilst allowing us to support those affected by germ cell cancer through the hardest time of their lives.
"We can't wait to see everyone at the start line, congratulate them at the finish line, and once again celebrate the support from the people of Colchester."
Last year's marathon saw the Robin Cancer Trust raise £43,000 for charities and organisations.
Proceeds from this year's event, meanwhile, will go toward the charity's awareness, educational, and support programmes for young people battling germ cell cancer.
Ewals Cargo Care, Mersea Homes and Scrutton Bland are this year's sponsors.
Stuart Cock, Mersea Homes managing director, said: "We couldn't wait to be involved in the Colchester Half Marathon once again.
"The spirit and camaraderie we witnessed at the event was fantastic with so many runners including our own team giving their all to raise money for this wonderful charity."
Elizabeth Nichols, Scrutton Bland marketing director added: "We are thrilled to once again sponsor the Colchester Half Marathon.
"We wish all the runners and volunteers the best of luck, and we eagerly await seeing some of our own Scrutton Bland team members participating on the day. It will be great to see everyone come together for a great cause."
Alex Ruffle, UK & Ireland country manager for Ewals said: “It’s fantastic to be returning as a tier 1 sponsor for the Colchester Half-Marathon in 2024.
"Being able to contribute to the success of the event and to support something that fosters so much city energy and spirit is amazing.
"We have been operating in Colchester for over 30 years and I think this is the perfect way to give back to the community."
The organisers are now encouraging people to help them with the running of the event by signing-up to volunteer.
All volunteers will be entered into a prize draw to win a Pamper and Prosecco Spa day for two people offered by Lifehouse Spa and Hotel, which includes a 55 minute massage each and lunch.
To find out more information visit colchesterhalfmarathon.com.
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