The much-loved event, organised by The Hospice of the Good Shepherd and Chester Racecourse, will be returning for the third consecutive year, where 20 costumed characters will race across the final furlong.
In a spectacular display of unicorns, reindeer, polar bear, horses, donkeys and cows, local businesses will don their selected costumes to raise money for a very important cause.
The Hospice of the Good Shepherd provides end-of-life care and support to local individuals and families. Last year, the panto race raised a total of £10,000, and this year the goal is to raise £15,000, which is the amount it costs to run the hospice for just one day.
Throughout three-year the partnership with Chester Racecourse, over £60,000 has been raised for the hospice. It is a major contribution to the £5.7 million that the hospice needs to raise each year to fulfil its vital services.
Every penny of the funds raised from previous years’ events has gone towards providing care and support to local inpatients and their loved ones, and those who use the superb Living Well outpatient centre.
Several local businesses have already confirmed their involvement, including Clay Connections, who are keen to defend their winning title. However, there are still many spots to fill, and the charity is calling on more businesses to throw their hat, or costume, into the ring.
Toni Waters, corporate and relationship manager at Hospice of the Good Shepherd, said: “The support we receive from Chester Racecourse strengthens our connection with the local community and helps us bring more businesses together, raising greater awareness for the hospice.
“Last year’s Pantomime Horse Race was great fun and a fantastic way to bring local businesses together. The atmosphere was brilliant and the event created a real sense of community.
“We are really looking forward to the buzz on the day, the costumes, the friendly competition, and the fantastic turnout from local businesses.”
Louise Stewart, CEO at Chester Race Company, added: “This is a cause that is very close to our hearts at Chester Racecourse and we’re proud to collaborate with the Hospice of the Good Shepherd on several of our events.
“The race brings out the nerves, the adrenalin and the camaraderie of the teams involved – all the ingredients for a great team day out, combined with an incredible opportunity to promote your business in front of thousands of people, and support a good cause at the heart of the local community. We can’t wait to host the next one at our Family Fun Day in August.”
The pantomime race kicks Family Fun Day off to a lively start, taking place just before the first horse race.
Businesses interested in getting involved can visit www.hospiceofthegoodshepherd.com/events/pantomime-horse-race or contact Toni Waters on toni.waters@hospicegs.com.
