A Laois fundraiser in aid of the Irish Cancer Society has appealed for locals willing to volunteer at the event.

Laois Relay for Life will return to Emo Court House & Parklands on August 16, aiming to raise funds for local Night Nurses, Volunteer Drivers and Counselling in Laois, through the Irish Cancer Society.

Event organisers have appealed for volunteers to assist with the running of events.

Organisers require volunteers to assist with carparking attendants to direct traffic, decorating the tents and the general area and helping to fill the candle bags.

"This event will take place at Emo Court House on Saturday August 16, the event starts at starting at 1pm but volunteers are needed before this," organisers shared.

'Personable skills' are required for these voluntary roles, which are one-off three hour slots. Volunteers must be over the age of 18.

"If you can't make it to the full event, there are so many other ways to support. You can Donate to our event or to your favourite team or fundraiser, or you can buy a Candle of Hope bag and join us at the Candle of Hope ceremony on August 16, for an evening of music and remembrance," organisers said.

At a national level, Relay for Life also funds vital cancer supports such as enabling cancer nurses to be on hand in the nationwide Daffodil Centres, running a freephone support line, as well as funding pioneering cancer research.

There are 15 Relay for Life events running across the country this year, and they have raised almost €600,000.

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