Strathcarron Hospice looking for virtual 10k runners

As with all charities, the hospice fundraising team has found its calendar of events has been decimated in 2020.

The pandemic has forced them to cancel many vital cash-raising initiatives due to social distancing restrictions.

However, there was one favourite in the diary that the hospice team were determined would go ahead, the annual 10k.

The event has taken place for over 30 years and was scheduled to go ahead on Sunday, October 4.

But instead of running around the streets of Denny or in the grounds of Stirling University as they have previously, competitors are being asked to sign up for a virtual 10k and run anywhere they like on the day.

Two Falkirk businesses have signed on to be involved with Life Fit Wellness giving 20 per cent off sports massage to those taking part and Johnston’s Bar & Bistro offering 50 per cent off food and non-alcoholic drinks, up to £10 per person.

Claire Macdonald, Strathcarron’s business development fundraiser, said: “For over 30 years, the Strathcarron 10k Race has played an important role in the hospice’s fundraising calendar, and none more so than in 2020. Covid-19 continues to have a devastating impact on the hospice’s fundraising activities and staff at Strathcarron are calling on the local community now more than ever to raise funds to support its work.

“This year we have had to adapt our calendar of fundraising events in line with Covid-19 restrictions and we’re hoping that our 10K Race virtual will appeal to supporters old and new.

“The idea is simple – register via our website at strathcarronhospice.net, plan out a 10k route in your local area, and run it anytime between 6am and 6pm on Sunday, October 4.

“Using our new fundraising platform, you can link your fundraising page with Strava to see your time on our official leaderboard, receive a free finishers medal and certificate, 20 per cent off sports massage with Life Fit Wellness and 50 per cent off food and non-alcoholic drinks (up to £10pp) at Johnston’s Bar & Bistro.”

Claire added that although gyms, pubs and restaurants have reopened, fundraising events and campaigns are still cancelled, and Strathcarron Hospice still needs to raise over £12,900 a day to keep its vital services running.