Popular Looe race will support New Heli Appeal

A popular running race in Looe is to help raise vital funds for the Cornwall Air Ambulance New Heli Appeal this February.

Taking place on Saturday 23 February, the Looe 10 Miler attracts hundreds of runners from around the South West and beyond, and forms part of the Cornish Grand Prix Series of top races in the county. It takes in a challenging but scenic route along the coast from West Looe to Talland and back again.

This year each entry will include a minimum £2 donation to the New Heli Appeal and runners are also encouraged to raise sponsorship to support the campaign. In addition an evening event at Tencreek Holiday Park aims to add even more to the total.

Bryan Maywood from local running club Looe Pioneers, who organise the race, said: “The Cornwall Air Ambulance provides a vital service for the county and has had an impact on so many people. We are incredibly proud to be supporting the campaign for a new helicopter so that even more lives can be saved in the future.

“We always try to ensure our club events benefit the local community and encourage everyone to get involved. So this year we have moved the race to a Saturday afternoon and included an after-party with live music so there really is something for everyone. The evening event is free but we’re asking for a donation to the appeal on the door.”

Becky Wise, Cornwall Air Ambulance Community Fundraising Manager, said: “We’re delighted that the Looe 10 Miler is supporting our appeal for a new helicopter. As we receive no government funding, the service we provide relies on the generosity of local people and we need to raise £2.5 million by April 2020 in order to purchase the new aircraft.

“The new helicopter will be faster, more powerful and have double the fuel range so that the crew can fly more missions and reach people quicker. It will also have improved facilities on board meaning more treatment can take place on route to the hospital and give patients a better chance of survival. We’re looking forward to the event. Our mascot ‘Aircrew Andy’ will be starting the race and we can’t wait to cheer everyone on!”

The Looe 10 Miler takes place on Saturday 23 February at 1pm and people can enter online via the Looe Pioneers website where there is also a postal entry form. Runners will receive a medal and goodie bag thanks to sponsors Cornish Tea and Gibson’s Cornish Ice Cream.

The after-party will be at Tencreek Holiday Park in Looe with live music from 9pm.