The St Mary's popular, yearly, 5k race will still go ahead, virtually.

St Mary's Primary School in Yate has hosted the annual St Mary's 5K Run, every June since 2007. However, this year, the well attended race can not be scheduled as normal due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The race usually attracts around 500 runners, from elite running enthusiasts to young children wanting to run with mum and dad.

The 5k Run is one of the biggest fundraising events organised by the Friends of St Mary's School, raising vital funds, towards IT equipment, books, school trips, playground improvements and a pond area revamp for the children of the school.

The school were keen for the return of the event and so, the team decided on organising a virtual 5k and they hope, the numbers will be similar to those of previous years.

Sarah Griffiths, 5k event organiser, said:

"As a team, we were determined that the event should still happen in 2020 in some shape.

"Obviously, we can’t gather in large groups or use school grounds. We discussed the idea of a Virtual 5K event, and it seems to be the next best thing to taking part in the run.

"This way we can go ahead, whilst keeping everyone as safe as possible.

"We hope that race runners and families from all over the area can join in the fun of our virtual event.

"Wherever you can run, you can earn a medal. It's really straightforward to register, pay and to submit evidence of your run afterwards it can all be done via our website.

"Last year the Friends raised a record £18,000 through community events like the Yate Scarecrow Trail, Christmas Fair and Flamingo Flocking.

"This year, as for many other charities, fundraising will be more challenging. So, every penny raised counts more than ever towards supporting the school."

The Virtual 5K be completed on a treadmill, on footpaths, in laps around the park or your own garden. It's suitable for children too, as long as they run with an adult.

To sign up, go to www.stmarysrun.co.uk.

For more information about the run go to the 5K Facebook page www.facebook.com/stmarysrun

The St Mary's 5K has been sponsored for many years by companies in the local community and the 5K team wish to thank the lead sponsors Farrington's for their ongoing and generous support.

They also wish to thank other local companies including Crest Timber, J G Electricals, Pearce Bros and Mortgage Advice Bureau for supporting the event.