THE weekend is here – and it means only one thing ... the Smileathon is descending on Cleethorpes seafront.
Tomorrow, scores of kind-hearted fundraisers are donning running shoes and fancy dress to complete a route along the seafront in the biggest single fundraiser ever for charities in our area.
As reported, Smileathon is the first ever sponsored run in our area where all the money raised will go to eight local charities.
It is hoped tens of thousands of pounds will be raised, with not a penny of the cash going out of the local area.
And there is still time to sign up – you can just turn up to Meridian Park tomorrow and register.
No matter what the weather is, you can hop, skip, jump, walk or run the route on Cleethorpes seafront, and all money raised will go to: Cleethorpes RNLI; Diana, Princess Of Wales Hospital Macmillan Ward and A1 Trust Fund; The Ark Animal Rescue and Retirement Home; North East Lincolnshire Women's Aid; The Laura McPhee Memorial Fund; North East Lincolnshire Disability Sports Forum; Harbour Place Day Centre; Friendship at Home Scheme.
Cleethorpes MP Martin Vickers has now decided to join in the fun.
He is determined to get recognition for the great work of all the local charities benefiting from the Smileathon, which is backed by major sponsor Millennium Chemicals.
He said: "I am very aware of the hard work all these good causes do for the area, which is why I want to add my support to the Smileathon.
"There is always a risk that the small local charities can be overlooked with the prominence of the bigger national charities.
"These local charities have a specifically local emphasis helping people in the area.
"I am very happy to get involved and support these charities as best as I can. I will strive to get as much sponsorship as possible."
Mr Vickers believes his time at Parliament has prepared him for the event.
"I walk miles and miles every day to and from the House of Commons. There are a lot stairs," he said.
"A four-mile walk shouldn't be a problem!
"The Olympics has obviously encouraged a lot of people to take part in more sports and exercise so why not come and join in?
"I would encourage everyone to come down and join up; there's still plenty of time to get involved."
There is something for everyone at the Smileathon, which has been kindly backed by major sponsor Millennium Chemicals, which is providing medals and goodies for participants.
For people with disabilities – if you have been inspired by Paralympics 2012 to get fit and active, why not take part in Smileathon.
There is the chance to complete a one-mile lap at 11am within the Meridian Park arena. Go on – give it a go!
It is hoped between £10,000 and £50,000 will be raised from the £5 entry fee and sponsorship.
Get involved
It's not too late to join in the Smileathon. Simply turn up to Meridian Park on the day and pay £5 for an entry pack, but make sure you are there in plenty of time before the event at 11am. Disabled participants are also welcome, and will have a route marked out.
