A kaleidoscope of colour is due to envelop Holsworthy on Sunday, October 4, when a riotously fun fundraising event returns to the town.
Colour-Me-Happy takes place in Stanhope Park and will raise much-needed funds for North Devon Hospice’s new facility in Holsworthy, called The Long House. Organisers said it is a celebration of community, charity and most importantly, colour.
Colour-Me-Happy involves a 3k route where entrants will be showered at various points with a rainbow of colourful powder.
Jenny Richardson, from North Devon Hospice’s fundraising team, said: “This is going to be the happiest 3k you’ll ever walk, dance or run.
“The idea is not to race around the course, but to savour the experience together and enjoy the unique feeling of being covered head-to-toe in every colour under the sun.
“It’s suitable for absolutely anyone. In fact, last year we had people of all ages, including a group on roller skates and several wheelchair users too.
“So grab your family and friends and sign up today. It will be a wonderful way to come together and celebrate health, happiness and well-being.”
The idea for Colour-Me-Happy comes from the famous Hindu festival of Holi, and the event is making a return after a popular debut last year which saw more than 500 people take part.
Sajla Armstrong took part last year and is volunteering for the event next month as part of the ‘Colour Crew’.
She said: “It was just an unforgettable experience. Everyone looked beautiful in their rainbow of colours at the end.
“The whole day has got a great carnival atmosphere with live entertainment before and after the event.
“For anyone who missed it last year, I cannot explain what an amazing experience it is. Please sign up today to be part of it.”
The 3k route starts and finishes in Stanhope Park and will go right past the hospice’s brand new facility in Holsworthy, The Long House.
A spokesperson for the hospice added: “The funds raised from last year’s event helped to actually build The Long House, while this year’s event will also support the cause so our doctors, nurses, counsellors and therapists can provide the extra support that is needed locally.
“So it will be great for people to go past the building as part of Colour-Me-Happy, as it reminds everyone why they are taking part. The building is just the start of our plan to provide more care closer to home, we need your ongoing support to actually deliver this care and make a difference to those affected by cancer and other life-limiting illnesses.”
Places for Colour-Me-Happy are limited, so sign up today at www.northdevonhospice.org.uk or call Jenny on 01271 347232 for an entry form. Registration is £15 for adults and £8 for those aged 12 to 18. Under 12s go free with a participating adult.
A spokesperson added: “Sign up now and get ready to paint the town red, blue, pink, green and every other colour you can imagine.”