Rescheduled for Sunday 6 September, participants are invited to walk five, ten or 20 miles on their own or with their friends and family, at their own pace and in their own local area.

Charlotte von Sicard, Wessex Cancer Trust’s regional community manager, said, “Many of our Walk for Hope participants have or have had cancer, so even though social distancing measures are easing, we know it’s still a really anxious time for some people and we didn’t feel it would be responsible to plan for a large gathering. Walk for Hope is still the perfect way to unite and give hope to friends and family undergoing cancer treatment, remember loved ones and support everyone affected by cancer. Last year 300 people took part in Walk for Hope and together they raised £50,000 which has made a huge difference to the lives of local people. Please help us to make 2020 the biggest and best yet.”

Wessex Cancer Trust’s patron, Harry Redknapp, said, “It’s been a tough few months for everyone, but cancer doesn’t stop and throughout the pandemic Wessex Cancer Trust has kept its services going for anyone who needs it. This is despite not being able to raise money by holding outdoor events.”

The charity has launched a new website for the event at www.walkforhope.co.uk  where participants can register and set up a fundraising page. They can keep track of the distance they have covered by linking Strava or FitBit to their individual page. There is also a fundraising leaderboard so they can see how they are doing and compete with friends and family.

Entrants receive an official Walk for Hope t-shirt, a fundraising pack, a training and event guide, and membership to a Facebook group where they can meet other participants and share fundraising and training tips.

Registration is £10 with a fundraising goal of £100 per person.

Wessex Cancer Trust uses all of the money raised to provide practical and emotional support to anyone living with cancer in Hampshire, Wiltshire, Dorset and the Isle of Wight. The event is being sponsored by Irwin Mitchell Solicitors.