CANCER RESEARCH UK is encouraging people in Yate and surrounding areas to join the fight against cancer.

The charity is urging friends, family and work colleagues to get together and enter a team for RELAY FOR LIFE, which unites communities to help beat over 200 types of the disease.

Teams of all ages, levels of fitness and from all walks of life are needed to take part at YOSC (Yate Outdoor Sports Complex) from midday Saturday, July 6 to midday Sunday, July 7. 

They are asked to raise as much money as possible in the months leading up to the Relay through a wide range of fundraising activities.

Anything from bike rides, to bake sales and bingo – as well as securing donations from friends and family - could help teams to power life-saving research. 

Gazette Series: Pictures from last year's Relay for Life in Yate. Images by Rich McDTheir fundraising efforts then culminate in a unique festival to remember loved ones, honour everyone affected by cancer and celebrate the progress being made in beating the disease.

Members of the charity’s Relay For Life committee in Yate are calling on people to give their support today to help make breakthroughs possible tomorrow.

Volunteer chair of the event, Keith Hatherall, said: “Nearly one in two of us will get cancer in our lifetime, but all of us can support the research that will beat it.

"That’s why we need everyone in Yate to sign up now.

“Thanks to our Relayers – and supporters across the UK - every day, people are being diagnosed earlier, have access to kinder and more effective treatments, and in some cases, cancers are prevented completely.

“By taking part in Relay for Life every person, every team and every pound raised will be helping Cancer Research UK scientists to make new discoveries.

"So, we hope as many people as possible will join us for an unforgettable experience.

"We want to bring about a world where everybody lives longer, better lives free from the fear of cancer.

“We know the community spirit in Yate is incredibly powerful, so we’re urging supporters to show their solidarity, take part and help bring hope to more people affected by this devastating disease.

"Together, we are beating cancer step by step.”

During the relay itself, team members take it in turns to walk round the track while everyone else enjoys a range of fun activities on offer, including a variety of entertainment and music from local performers.

As the event is non-stop for 24 hours, those team members not on the track can take turns to rest, eat, or join the festivities.