Lancaster City Council has joined forces with Lancaster and Morecambe Athletics Club to organise a very special Eric Morecambe themed charity event this Saturday (14th March) as part of this year’s “Red Nose” fund raising in the area.

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To celebrate the swift return of the Eric Morecambe statue to its rightful place on the prom after it was vandalised, an ‘Eric’ inspired 3k fun run will be taking place tomorrow.

Starting at 11.00am the fun run, which takes place the day after Red Nose Day, is also an opportunity for runners to raise money for Comic Relief.

While there is no entry fee, entrants will be able to make a small donation to the charity, or raise money via sponsorship.

Councilor Ron Sands, Cabinet member with responsibility for culture, said: “Over the years we seem to have become complacent about our link to one of the greatest comedians of all time. The vandalism to the statue made us all sit up and galvanised the spirit of the people of Morecambe to just how important Eric is to all of us.

“This event not only provides us with the opportunity to celebrate Eric’s legacy but also raise money for a good cause at the same time.”

Louise Goddard with daughters Alice (6) and Olivia (9) from Lancaster limber up in preparation for the Eric Morecambe fun run.

The fun run will start and finish at the Eric Morecambe statue and is especially aimed at families and fun runners, but more regular competitors are very welcome.

There will be an informal and festive atmosphere and entrants are urged to wear Eric Morecambe themed fancy dress for the event. Eric style glasses will be provided to get people in the mood.

Although entries can be taken on the day we prefer anyone interested to enter in advance. Times will be recorded and there will be prizes for all finishers.

Race organiser at Lancaster and Morecambe Athletics Club, Angus Murray, said: “The Club is very pleased to have the chance to be joint organisers of this fun run which we are sure will be a great family event as well as a good opportunity to raise money for good causes. We hope that lots of local families and children will take part.”