An ultra-marathon race organiser from Rixton has raised over £15,000 worth of essential goods for homeless charities and food banks through hosting a virtual running event.

Wayne Drinkwater and his company GB Race Tracker hosted ‘Race for Britain’ throughout December and early January, in aid of more than 70 foodbanks nationwide.

The company has a membership of around 10,000 racers who were involved in the virtual event and donated food, toiletries and warm clothes for those in need, as well as passing on information leaflets for homeless shelters.

Wayne said: “We saw that people were losing their jobs quite rapidly and people’s lives were changing drastically and it’s about helping others as much as we can.

“We try and bring people in under our umbrella, give them a purpose and a goal whilst getting out there and getting some fresh air.”

Participants paid a small entrance fee which was used to buy the essential supplies donated directly to local charities and foodbanks across the country.

Wayne, 40, said: “We’re trying to make sure we make a difference now rather than it being in someone’s bank account because people need the help now.”

Digital mapping software allowed the race organiser to plan routes for participants, including Scafell Pike in England, Ben Nevis in Scotland and Snowdon in Wales, to be completed remotely by tracking the distance of local runs online.

Warrington Guardian: More than £15,000 has been raisedMore than £15,000 has been raised

Each participant was awarded a medal for completion of a route.

The race organiser also promotes taking part in running events for the mental health benefits it provides during these difficult times.

Wayne said: “Whatever’s going through your mind, when you go for a run or walk it clears some of those troubles away.”

Other races organised by GB Ultras include Manchester to Liverpool Ultra (passing through Warrington), the Race Across Scotland, and one in the Himalaya.

The company regularly fundraises through racing events and throughout 2020 they raised money for Clatterbridge Cancer Research, the Homeless, Alder Hey, and Mind.

They have also supported schools in the USA and Hong Kong with virtual events, as well as a female sports charity in Nepal, raising £11,300 when all sponsors pulled out.

Wayne added: “The community has been incredible and I’d just like them to be recognised for their amazing work.”

For more information or to make a donation, visit: https://www.gbultras.com/virtual-run/.