Biggest Colour Run yet to pay tribute to tragic Neil

One of the borough's most vibrant charity events will be tinged with sadness this year as it is dedicated to the memory of a Wigan fundraiser.
By The Newsroom
Published 26th Jun 2018, 15:16 BST
Updated 26th Jun 2018, 15:23 BST
Neil RigbyNeil Rigby
Neil Rigby

The Wigan and Leigh 5k Colour Run is once again taking place at Pennington Flash in September and is also a tribute to Neil Rigby who died during last year’s event.

The run, which sees participants get covered in coloured paint as they pass through various stations on their way around the course, is put on by Wigan Warriors Community Foundation and Wigan and Leigh Hospice (WLH).

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The organisers have been working with June Rigby, widow of 47-year-old Neil, and the team of family and friends running for him will be at the front of the field as it sets off.

A previous colour runA previous colour run
A previous colour run

Neil collapsed during the 2017 run and, sadly, all medical attempts at the scene to save him failed.

Family have urged as many people as possible to sign up and the event is continuing to grow, with another bumper field expected and Land of Beds coming on board as the main sponsor.

The event raises thousands of pounds to support the work of the hospice and the foundation and Wiganers are being urged to back it.

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Wigan Warriors Community Foundation manager Mike Wearden said: “The Wigan and Leigh Colour Run is now moving into its fifth year and has widely become known as the official event of its type in the borough.

“With over 1,000 participants attending each year, raising funds for two amazing charities, it’s fantastic to see the event gaining support from national organisations.

“We’re delighted to have Land of Beds on board supporting the day and we’re looking forward to the new and additional activities working in partnership with them will bring to the event”.

Land of Beds MD Mike Murray, said: “Land of Beds wants to support families who are going through the toughest of times; therefore, it is our privilege to be sponsoring the Colour Run, which will help to raise essential funds for Wigan and Leigh Hospice, an outstanding local charity that is close to our hearts and cares for more than a thousand people a year with life-limiting illnesses.”

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The colour run also has Sealy, the Warriors’ official sleep partner, on board this time and the 2018 event features a new relaxation zone where people can try out a high-tech mattress before or after the event as well as enter competitions.

Places for this year’s run, which is on September 16, are still available by visiting colour run

Related topics:WiganPennington Flash