Cancer Research UK's Shine night walk is cancelled for 2020

Organisers of Cancer Research UK’s Shine Night Walk in Birmingham said they had taken the difficult decision as restrictions on mass gatherings caused by the Covid-19 pandemic continue.

The charity has called off all 14 of its Shine 10K walking events, including Birmingham, which will no longer take place on Saturday, September 19.

Participants who have already signed up will be contacted directly by the charity.

Cancer Research UK expects to see its fundraising income decline by up to 25 per cent in the next financial year as a direct result of the pandemic.

Paula Young, Cancer Research UK spokesperson in the West Midlands, said: “We remain tirelessly committed to making progress for people affected by cancer but now more than ever, support from the public will be vital. We simply will not be able to continue funding our life-saving work without it.

“We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who has taken part in Shine in the past and hope their support will continue. Last year an amazing £114,482 was raised at Shine Birmingham.

"It was a night to remember as people took to the city/town’s streets in a fun and inspirational parade of light to raise money for life-saving research. It is with a heavy heart that we have to announce that it won’t be taking place this year. The safety of our supporters, volunteers, suppliers and staff is however essential.

“We hope Shine Night Walk will be back for 2021 in Birmingham. But the battle against cancer never stops. That’s why we’d love to invite people to consider taking on their own socially distanced Shine walk and help raise funds.”

People can visit shinewalk.org and sign up free for the latest news and updates on how to take on their own Shine walk. Organisers are also inviting participants to join the Shine Walk Your Way community by sharing photos and videos on social media using the hashtag, #ShineWalkYourWay