Running events in Macclesfield have been among the many to be cancelled as a result of the coronavirus pandemic, which doesn't just leave runners with fewer races, but also starves charities of vital funds.

Local businessman, Simon Spurrell and personal trainer, Matt Rigby, have launched the Virtual 10k Charity Walk or Run in an effort to help the charities and allow runners to embrace their competitive side.

Simon explained Macclesfield Nub News how they came up with the idea: "As part of the Rundamentalist running club, we'd all booked 10k races and half marathons, and one by one they were being cancelled.

"We thought, 'well what's the next best thing?' You can't meet and run together, it's not safe. But the virtual 10k means you can run where you like, when you like and just send us proof."

Participants of the event will run or walk a solo 10km race and record their time on their smartphones or watch and then share their time with the organisers.

Simon had set himself the challenge of completing 20 10k races in 2020, so he hopes this can be the next best thing and raise much-needed funds.

The Cheshire Cheese Company, which is owned by Simon, is sponsoring the event and sending out medals and goody bags to the participants.

Prize hampers will also be sent to those who record the fastest times in their 10k as well as a meal for two with a bottle of prosecco from the Thai Chilli Banana restaurant.

Runners will need to make a donation of at least £10 to enter the race, with proceeds going to the Macclesfield and District Lions Club to be distributed to local good causes.

Simon said: "My father is 80 and has been with the Lions Club for 40 years. He actually had a bout of coronavirus, but luckily not too bad and survived.

"The club has had the problem that they've had to cancel all their fundraisers, so this can help them out as well as they live to raise money."

He added: "The Lions don't take money for administration, they never have, and every single penny will go to charities and community projects in Macclesfield."

The East Cheshire Hospice is among the charities that will receive part of the funds raised.

Simon said that his company will cover every other cost, including posting the medals and goody bags to participants.

Organisers want participants to complete their 10km over the weekend of 6th and 7th June and it can be done wherever is most suitable for you.

To register and find out more information, go to the Rundementalist website.

If you do not want to run or walk as part of the event but still want to donate, you can visit the Macclesfield Lion's Just Giving page.