Everyone is invited to get behind a fully-accessible ’wheel and walk’ event to raise funds for the MS Society at the NSC cycle track.

The inaugural event last year attracted more than 70 people, many in wheelchairs, mobility scooters and with other walking aids.

This made it ’the first-ever fully accessible fundraising event ever held in the Isle of Man’ said Derek Patience, chairman of the island branch of the MS Society.

The 2017 event raised more than £8,000 for the local branch.

’That is a lot of money from one event,’ said Derek. ’Obviously we were delighted, but it costs more than three times that much, every year, for this small local branch of the MS Society to provide the level of support and services it does for everyone affected by this debilitating, often disabling, and still incurable condition. The beauty of the wheel and walk is that it is a fundraising event that the vast majority of those who have MS can actually participate in.’

As well as help with funding for various aids which help people with MS to remain safely in their homes, the MS Society funds seated exercise, yoga and Pilates classes to keep people as healthy and fit as possible, and a full range of social events.

’Much of what we offer is practical or financial support, including the employment of a support officer with knowledge of MS who provides assistance, care and guidance where needed but we also know that many people with MS just want to get out and socialise with others,’ said Derek.

’MS affects more than just the people with the condition, it also has a knock-on effect on their families so also we run coffee mornings and lunches for people with MS and their families and carers.’

The ’wheel and walk’ starts at 10.15am on Saturday, April 28, and is open to all to participate and help organise the event on the day.

’Last year we had a number of marshals and first-aiders around the cycle track making sure everyone was OK and able to continue despite the wet and cold weather,’ said Derek. ’Obviously we’d prefer it to be dry and warm, but we won’t be put off by a bit of rain.

’The cause is too important, and we know the generous Manx public will dig deep again this year. And if you’re able to give up a couple of hours on April 28 to either wheel or walk yourself, or to help with the organisation, thank you.’

To take part registration is £10 and sponsor forms are available from [email protected],

or donate at www.justgiving.com/fundraising/iomwheelandwalk2018

For information on participating as an individual or company, on how to help or to donate, email Derek or phone 480755.