A CANCER charity will be bringing its first physical event since lockdown to Winchester.

On October 2, Wessex Cancer Trust’s Starlit Trail will run throughout the city.

It is a sponsored 5km walk to support local people living with cancer and last year, 200 participants raised £15,000.

Steve Brine, MP for Winchester and Chandler’s Ford, said: “Hope and recovery are very much a part of the support this amazing charity provides and so the return of the Starlit Trail is poignant as we ease out of lockdown.

"It’s been a particularly tough time for cancer patients and the charities who support them, but what’s remained constant is how the power of communities can change lives.

"It’s fantastic that Wessex Cancer Trust is hosting physical events again and that they’re bringing the feelgood factor to Winchester. Its Starlit Trail was a huge success last year, so please join them if you can.”

Those interested can sign up via the charity's website.

Mary Mould, who last year walked with her two daughters and a close friend, said it was a "poignant evening".

“Last year we lost a special person to us all and we wanted to do something to help raise money and awareness for this amazing charity, she said.

"Cancer affects so many of us, and therefore it’s easy to relate to why it’s so important to support anyone who has to live with it. It was a wonderful event - a proper starlit evening, with lovely surprises along the way."

The walk will start and finish in Winchester city centre.

Tickets are £15 per adult and £10 per child with a sponsorship goal of £100 per person.

All participants will receive a Starlit Trail t-shirt and refreshments on the night.

Catherine Lawry, Wessex Cancer Trust’s events fundraiser, said: "“There was such a lovely atmosphere at our first Starlit Trail last year and it was an evening full of positivity. After everything we’ve all been through this year we’re excited to see it return as a physical event - we think it’s something people really need at the moment and walking is great exercise. "

Please join us for a wonderful evening walk and help make a difference to the lives of local people living with cancer.”