Race for Life to swap location after 14 years of fund-raising at Ormesby Hall

Cancer Research UK’s Race for Life - which attracts thousands of Teessiders every year - is moving to a new location.

The women-only fund-raising event will this year be held at Centre Square in Middlesbrough.

It had been held at Ormesby Hall since 2001. The 5k event will also take place on one day, rather than two.

Organisers say the location change has been made to ensure the event can be held whatever the weather and that the reduction from two days to one will not affect the amount of women that can take part.

Area events manager, Sarah Threadgall said: “This new venue means we are no longer at the mercy of the weather and, come rain or shine, we can still host the event and avoid any disappointment by having to cancel due to wet weather."

She added: “Race for Life is traditionally held on a Sunday morning, but while at Ormesby Hall we had to work around its opening times so always held two smaller capacity events on a Friday and Saturday.

“With this new venue we have the capacity to hold one event which will not only save money to fund more research but mean everyone can join together and take part at the same time.

"This promises to be a great atmosphere that’s why we are calling on the brave ladies of Middlesbrough to help make this year’s Race for Life our best ever.”

Last year, about 3,700 women took part in Race for Life and raised £170,000.

A spokesperson for the National Trust said: “The Race for Life has been held at Ormesby Hall for nearly 15 years, but unfortunately, we’re no longer able to hold it.

“It’s such a fantastic event, always very well supported by the local community and we know it will continue to be a great success at its new venue. We’d like to wish everyone taking part this year the best of luck.”

This year’s event will take place on Sunday, June 28, at 10.30am.

As usual it is non-competitive - taking part is not about being fit or fast and participants can choose to walk, jog, run or even dance around the course if they prefer.

To enter, click HERE or call 0300 123 0770.