A FUNDRAISING cancer patient from Weymouth is stepping out for charity by organising a fun run and community day to raise money for research into the disease - following the devastating impact of Covid on cancer services.

Casey Foot was diagnosed with breast cancer in July 2019, and throughout the course of the coronavirus pandemic has faced having a number of her treatment appointments cancelled.

The 44-year-old is now launching a fundraising event in aid of Cancer Research UK and Breast Cancer UK.

She said: "I was diagnosed in July 2019, and I know young people who have been diagnosed in the last few years.

"So I started to think about raising money to try to help change things for future generations.

"We know charities have been suffering during the pandemic, and keep hearing how the lockdown will lead to delayed cancer diagnosis. A lot of my appointments have been cancelled due to the pandemic. My last appointment was in September."

To raise awareness and as much cash as possible, Ms Foot is holding the mile-long Bincombe Bolt race in West Farm, Bincombe, on May 30.

She said: "Anyone can have a go, but the challenge is that the last 300 metres is an uphill gradient of 28 per cent."

Ms Foot said runners will be put into heats - and a podium finish during their preliminary round will see runners put through to compete in the final.

"The idea is that it will be a Red Bull-esque event - a bit crazy," she said.

"We will have live music, professional comperes and hope to create a great atmosphere for a fun day out.

"Racers are invited to do it in fancy dress if they like, there will be a prize for the most stylish racer, as well as prizes for 'King and Queen of the Bolt'."

Kruti Shrotri, Cancer Research UK spokeswoman Kruti Shrotri said: "Covid-19 has had a devastating impact on cancer services, including screening programmes.

"We estimate between March and September 2020, around three million fewer people were screened than in the same time the previous year.

"Cancer screening has restarted across the UK, but there’s now a significant backlog. It’s vital people who missed out on cancer screening are invited to take part as soon as possible.

"If you notice any unusual changes for your body, don't wait for your screening invite - contact your GP. Early diagnosis can make all the difference."

For more information, visit: www.bincombebumpsevents.co.uk

CONTACT ME:

t: 01305 830999

e: sam.mckeown

@newsquest.co.uk

twitter: @SamMcKReporter