Brian House Night Run called off

More than 5,000 participants raised £70,000-plus on its debut last year - as part of Blackpool Illuminations switch-on weekend, it attracted hundreds from out of town as well as local runners to the Promenade.

But charity officials say current Government restrictions during the pandemic make it impossible to stage this year.

Kayleigh Penn, events organiser for Trinity Hospice and Brian House, said: “Sadly there’s no way we can hold Night Run this year, which is a huge disappointment to so many.

“It was such a success in 2019 and we had planned an even bigger event this time, but public safety comes first and I know we will be back in 2021.”

The cancellation is another blow for Trinity and Brian House, who are facing a £1mi deficit this year because of the cancellation of events and the lengthy clsore of their high street shops.

But there is still a way for supporters to get involved, by signing for your own ‘virtual’ Night Run and raising sponsorship to help close that funding shortfall.

In the past three months, the Bispham-based hospice has seen hundreds of local people do their own ‘virtual’ runs and bike rides instead of taking part in the mass participation event. Their efforts have raised thousands of pounds so far, and Kayleigh hopes Night Run will follow suit.

She said: “People have done their own solo runs and rides, and this is another opportunity.

"We provide the t-shirt and the medal; we just need people to sign up and get some sponsors.

"Summer should be full of fun at Brian House Children’s Hospice, but this year the gardens have been quiet, there have been no trips to the beach or park, and no visitors as staff support over 60 local families through the challenge of Covid- 19.

"Day to day life at Brian House has changed, with nurses in PPE, many friendship groups not meeting because children are isolating at home, and advice provided on the phone rather than face to face.

“We have missed everyone – and we have missed our supporters.

"By taking part in a virtual Night Run you can help us, and you can have some fun at the same time because that’s what Brian House is all about: making the most of every day.

“Sponsorship from your virtual Night Run can help pay our running costs; can pay for equipment and for the experiences that we have missed so much.

"Your support will help us carry on, no matter what the future brings.”

Details of how to get involved at www.blackpoolnightrun.co.uk