More than 400 participants and 37 teams will take part in the fourth Isle of Man Relay for Life, which starts tomorrow (Saturday).
The 24-hour non-competitive relay at the National Sports Centre track, sponsored by Celton Manx, starts at midday.
It raises funds for Cancer Research UK, now an Isle of Man registered charity, and money raised will go towards centres, treatment and research which directly benefits island patients.
The event’s format has been changed this year to make it a community style family fun day so the whole of the island community can be a part of it.
A VIP reception for cancer survivors will follow the opening lap of honour to start the event.
At a ‘fun day’ from midday until 5pm, entertainment will include an aerobics warm up, pilates and yoga classes, and a space hopper race.
Adults can treat themselves to a massage, and children can have their faces painted, watch Cookie the Clown, or take part in activities including a mini relay, treasure hunt, and craft activities.
A Big Relay Duck Race starts at 4.30pm.
Stalls and refreshments will sell purple ice cream, scones and popcorn.
Dot Tilbury will host a ‘Miss Relay’ pageant for the teams.
At dusk, the relay stops while candles of hope are lit to line the walking track, signifying hope and remembrance for those loved and lost to cancer.
A minute’s silence will be kept in remembrance.
Anyone can dedicate a candle in return for a donation.
The evening will see a movie night, and hot chocolate and cookies, and the following morning a closing ceremony including entertainment from Samba Mann and prize presentations at midday at the close of the relay.
There will also be health and cancer awareness information on display from both Cancer Research UK and local cancer charities.
Senior Cancer Research UK nurse Ruth Stafferton will be attending the relay too.
