A CANCER charity hopes to turn a racecourse green when it hosts its own horseracing event this spring.

The Macmillan Cancer Support Galloping Green Raceday takes place at Sedgefield Racecourse in County Durham on Tuesday, May 5, from 1.45pm and will feature seven races.

Volunteers dressed in the charity’s trademark green will be collecting and raising awareness on the day and it is hoped companies will get involved by sponsoring a race or treating staff to a day at the races.

The charity hopes to raise £5,000 on the day, which will be used to support people with cancer in the North-East.

Michelle Muir, Macmillan fundraising manager for County Durham, said: “Events like this are so important. Sadly, every day in the North East a staggering 42 people in the area hear the devastating news they have cancer, and 22 people die from the illness.

“This will see the North East’s population of people living with cancer nearly double in the next ten to 20 years.”

Jill Williamson, executive director at Sedgefield Racecourse, added: “The aim is not only to raise much needed funds for the charity but to also create awareness about the fantastic advice and support the charity offers”

For more information about sponsorship and hospitality opportunities contact Emma Gillies at Sedgefield Racecourse on 01740 621925.

Advanced entry costs from £13. Visit sedgefield-racecourse.co.uk