AN annual fundraiser which supports a breast cancer charity is set to start next week.

Mad March Hare will be held virtually throughout March and aims to raise funds for Breast Cancer Now.

Participants can either walk, jog or run 5km or 10km and send a proof of completion to receive their medal.

Since 2008, the event has raise more than £123,500, with 100 per cent of the registration fee going directly to the charity.

Event organiser Margaret Nicholson said: “In terms of the event it’s very much about making a very valuable contribution to the charity and getting a very nice medal and fundraising as much as they want.

“We want to get you out there, do some exercise, have some fun and raise some money for charity any day in March because that’s the theme.”

She encouraged people to check themselves for breast cancer. She said: “Don’t be shy, Breast Cancer Now on its website has some really good literature that you can either download or look out online on how to check yourself.”

The event was inspired by Irene Hare, a member of Swindon Twin Peaks Power Walking group who lost her life to breast cancer in 2006 at the age of 46.

Charities have been hit hard by the impact of Covid-19 and support from members of the public is needed to make up for income lost during the pandemic.

Visit madmarchhare.org.uk for details.