Covid-19 forces the cancellation of a popular Sunderland charity run for the first time in seven years

On their way in one of the previous years of the annual run.

An annual Sunderland run which raises money for Forces heroes has been cancelled because of the pandemic.

Organisers of the Run 2 Respect had to take the difficult decision to cancel the 5k run which would have been held at Silksworth on Sunday, November 1.

But the continuing threat of the coronavirus has forced the cancellation and event founder Claire Douglas said: “Due to the impact of Covid-19 and the ongoing risks associated with the virus, it is with deepest regret that I have taken the hard decision to cancel Run to Remember 2020.

"Given we are still unable to return to ‘normal’ and other large scale events are not going ahead, I feel unable to do so either.

Run to Respect 5k organiser Claire Douglas at Silksworth Sports Complex.

"Participants safety is my highest priority and I am unable to ensure it. We will endeavour to run the event in 2021.”

She urged all those who have supported the event over the years to ‘stay home, stay safe’.

Last year’s Run 2 Respect was a huge success and it had a star name to launch it.

They were treated to an event to remember with SAFC legend Kevin Ball starting the race, and ‘Big Pink Dress’ Colin Burgin-Plews getting loads of encouragement in his latest creation complete with headwear covered in poppies.

Claire Douglas (left) collecting her Best of Wearside Award in 2015.

Claire is no stranger to fundraising and has been organising charity runs for years.

Her efforts helped her to win the Sunderland Echo Best of Wearside 2015 Fundraiser of the Year trophy and she has never stopped since.

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