Organisers of a major charity fundraiser have every reason to smile this week after generous Bay of Plenty Times readers helped save the event from being axed. Just days ago, the Cancer Society's Relay for Life was about to be abandoned after organisers failed to rouse the Bay's support. But after theBay Times highlighted their plight on Wednesday, Cancer Society events co-ordinator Hilary Hughes said organising the fundraiser was now in full swing. "The community support has been amazing, everyone has finally decided to come to the party," she said. "It's just great." Relay for Life has been held in dozens of venues nationwide over the past few years and involves teams running around a track continuously for 24 hours to raise funds for the society. Only 10 teams had entered, initially, falling well short of the number required to make the event viable. But by Wednesday night, Miss Hughes said team numbers tripled - meaning the event could now go ahead. "I really can't believe it, I'm so thankful." But Miss Hughes said interest in the event had not stopped there, with another 10 or so teams throwing their hats in the ring by yesterday afternoon. "We are well on our way to 40 now." Miss Hughes said with the number of people now registered to take part in the Relay for Life on March 5 and 6, it was bound to be a success. Organisers hope the event will raise at least $20,000 for Tauranga's Cancer Society branch. "We have people from all walks of life who have now registered," she said.
