HUNDREDS of determined fundraisers stayed awake all night for a 24-hour relay event at Yate Outdoor Sports Complex which raised more than £30,000 at the weekend.

A total of 32 teams of between three and 16 people had to keep one member on the track at all times for the annual Relay for Life in aid of Cancer Research UK, with some people completing marathons and one participant and committee member, Lauren Pettit, walking a double marathon.

Teams included Raysfield Infant and Junior schools and St Paul’s Catholic School, many of whom had spent months prior to the relay on Saturday and Sunday fundraising, and featured entertainment from Breeze FM, a performance by the Bristol Military Wives Choir, dancing from Pure and StreetCred, live music from the University of the Third Age ukulele group and a wake Zumba session in the morning.

There were also themed laps related to a health theme which team members dressed up for including a hat lap, reminding people to stay safe in the sun, a pyjamas and teddies lap, remembering children with cancer, and a doctors and nurses lap, in tribute to health workers.

The most poignant moments of the gruelling challenge was a Candle of Hope ceremony to remember lost loved ones, arranged by young committee member Rebecca Craddock, and a survivors’ lap for people who have battled cancer.

Cancer awareness specialist and committee member Hayley Farmer-Hall organised a mole check clinic alongside educational games for spectators.

She said: “I’m so proud to have been part of such an inspirational event this weekend, it really makes me appreciate every penny that we spend on research when you see these incredible teams walking for 24 hours.

“The £34,000 that has been raised so far would be enough to fund a research bursary for up to two years, allowing a doctor to continue their pioneering work in the lab to find new ways to tackle cancer, whilst saving lives in the clinic.”

Co-chairman of the Relay for Life committee, Liam Craddock, said: “This year we have taken relay forward with a new committee and will be putting on more activities over the coming months to get everyone together again now relay is over.

“We are so grateful to all our local schools, groups, particularly 1st Yate Scouts and the many businesses who have given their time, energy and services to making this year’s Yate Relay for Life a truly wonderful event.”

Donations are accepted until August 10 and the committee is hoping to top the £50,000 mark. Go to yaterelayforlife.org.uk or text YRFL56 with either £2, £5 or £10 to 70070.