Race for equality along Weymouth seafront

People will be walking, running and wheeling down Weymouth Esplanade in the borough’s first Race for Equality on Saturday, May 19.

The event will be raising money for a centre for disabled people, carers and older people.

Starting at Weymouth Pavilion at 11am, people will have the chance to try a 1.5km or 3km route.

Supporters hope to raise as much money as possible and will put it towards launching an Access Dorset Centre.

Described as a ‘one-stop shop’ for people in Weymouth and Portland, the centre will allow the community access information and support for living independently.

The Race for Equality event has been set up by charity Access Dorset with help and support from Weymouth and Portland Borough Council and Synergy Housing.

There will also be an Equality Village set up at the Pavilion so that people can have their say on services for the disabled and elderly in Dorset.

Chairman of the Weymouth organising committee Bob Biddiss encouraged as many people to sign up for the event as possible.

He said: “This is a chance to meet inspirational people and to show that as a community we’re committed to equality for all. Money raised will help us create an Access Dorset Centre in Weymouth which will bring all the services for disabled, older people and carers under one roof.”

He added: “I hope the people of Weymouth and the surrounding towns, including disabled people, non-disabled people, families and older people, will join the event and celebrate diversity. The Equality Village offers an opportunity to find out how we can help people overcome physical barriers and there’ll be plenty of fun family activities.”

Head of Tourism and Events at Weymouth and Portland Borough Council Matt Ryan said: “I am sure that Weymouth seafront will make an excellent venue for the event and provide a superb high profile location for participants and the Equality Village.

“I am sure the first Race for Equality event in Weymouth will be very well supported by the borough and visitors alike.”

Admission is £5 for people in employment, £2 for unemployed people and £1 for under 16s.

To sign up visit http://www.accessdorset.org.uk or call 01202 771336.