Tour de Walkshire challenge replaces cancelled Tour de Yorkshire 2021

Welcome to Yorkshire has teamed up with Yorkshire Cancer Research to fill the void after the Tour de Yorkshire cycling race was postponed until 2022 due to the Covid pandemic.

The new fundraising event is part of the tourism body's year-long Walkshire campaign and aims to involve everyone of all abilities, to cover any distance, individually or as a group.

Event organisers are inviting people to walk, cycle, run or push during May to raise funds and awareness for the cancer charity and its vital research.

More than 200 individuals and teams have already signed up. To get involved visit: https://join.yorkshirecancerresearch.org.uk/event/tour-de-walkshire-2021/home

Everyone who registers will receive a free t-shirt.

WTY chief executive James Mason said: “We wanted to create an inclusive event to bring people together (following government guidelines, of course) in the great outdoors, to encourage fitness and well-being, fundraise and raise awareness for an amazing charity, plus showcase our breathtaking county."

There's also a100-themed challenge in tribute to Sir Cpt Tom Moore who raised millions for the NHS.

On April 30, which would have been his 101st birthday, participants can opt to walk, run, ride or push a buggy or wheelchair 100 steps, 100km or 100miles depending on their fitness.

Director of brand and relationships for Yorkshire Cancer Research, Juliet Glendinning, said: "The pandemic has had a devastating impact on people with cancer, and has meant thousands of cancers have gone undiagnosed at an early stage when they’re easier to treat.

"We’re determined to change this. The Tour de Walkshire encourages people to get outdoors, be active and help save lives. Exercise has many benefits; it can help lower the risk of cancer and improve cancer treatment and recovery. So we would love to see friends, families, teams and organisations across the county get involved and do some good for themselves and for Yorkshire.”