Virtual balloon race organised by children's hospice charity
A week-long virtual balloon race has been organised by East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (Each) to raise money for the charity.
Participants will be able to buy a virtual balloon for £3 and change its shape, size and composition to help it win the race, which starts on Tuesday.
The race will begin at Westminster Abbey, with real life weather conditions set to affect the balloons. The winner will be the one that has flown the furthest from the launch point.
Jo White, Each community fundraiser, said: “One of the best parts about this virtual balloon race is it’s 100 per cent eco-friendly – no plastic balloons littering the oceans and no animals like birds harmed during the race.
“We’re looking to encourage some fun among our supporters in these challenging and difficult times.”
Those taking part will be able to track their balloon’s flight path, via Google satellite and maps, until the end of the race on June 9.
The winner will be presented with £500, with an iPad up for grabs for second place and £10 of book vouchers for the first 10 runners up.
During the Covid-19 crisis, the charity has thought up other interesting at-home fundraising ideas, including Dress Up Friday, haircuts and garden marathons.
To build a balloon for the event, go online to each.org.uk/balloonrace.