Town's first charity colour run raises vital funds for cancer centre in style

The Lingen Davies Cancer Fund’s Newtown Colour Run was held for the very first time earlier this month to mark the charity’s presence in the town after it launched a new charity hub in Plas Dolerw in the spring.

More than 350 runners and walkers braved the rain to complete a five-kilometre route around Parc Dolerw. Five powder colour stations sponsored by local businesses lent a rainbow effect to proceedings as the runners took on the fun course.

Entrants were treated to a warm-up Zumba session, music and entertainment, as well as face glitter, a barbecue, medal and photo finish. Lingen Davies has so far raised more than £70,000 from colour runs in Shrewsbury but this was the first time those in Mid Wales were treated to such an event on their doorstep.

Lizzy Ellis, fundraising events lead for the charity which exists to enhance the support services available to local cancer patients, said the day was an absolute riot and the almost constant rain did nothing to dampen everyone’s spirits.

“We are so grateful to the community of Newtown and Mid Wales for embracing this event, turning up in their hundreds and getting stuck in to this fabulously messy 5K. It really is one of my favourite events in our busy fundraising schedule," she said.

“Seeing young and old walking or running together and getting showered in paint along the way is brilliant sight. We’re delighted with the turnout and very much intend to run something similar again in the area next year.

“Thanks to our corporate sponsors HSBC, Bettws Hall, Control Techniques, EvaBuild, Station Couriers, Thomas Consulting, and MetroRod – without them we wouldn’t be able to hold events on this scale, and to have raised £14,500 for cancer patients throughout our region is just phenomenal, thanks to everyone for supporting us,” she added.

For more information on future events run by the charity visit the website lingendavies.co.uk.