HIV charity confirm Vitality Brighton Half Marathon will continue as planned

Sussex Beacon organisers of the Vitality Brighton Half Marathon confirm the race is unaffected by news the charity faces risk of closure.

The Sussex Beacon, the charity behind the Vitality Brighton Half Marathon, has said that next year’s race will not be affected by today’s announcement that the charity faces the prospect of closure following NHS budget cuts in June 2017.

Race organisers say it is “business as usual” for the 2017 event, scheduled for February 26.

The Sussex Beacon provides specialist support and care for people living with HIV through both inpatient and outpatient services. It helps hundreds of people living with HIV in Sussex each year and was rated ‘outstanding’ by the Care Quality Commission in September.

This morning,  The Sussex Beacon announced it faces the prospect of closing services, including its ten bed inpatient unit, following a reduction in the funding received from the NHS.

Race director Martin Harrigan, commented: “The race is unaffected by today’s announcement regarding the services of the charity and 2017 looks set to be a record-breaking year for runner numbers. Planning for next year’s race is going very well and we’re on schedule for another fantastic race day.”

The Sussex Beacon has organised the Brighton Half Marathon for the past 25 years and it is the charity’ main fundraising event each year.

Simon Dowe, CEO of The Sussex Beacon, commented: “The Vitality Brighton Half Marathon is unaffected by the current review into The Sussex Beacon’s services and it is business as usual for race day preparations. 2017 will be the 27th year of the race and we’re looking forward to welcoming thousands of runners and spectators on race day next February 26.”

For further information about the Vitality Brighton Half Marathon, click here:

For more information about the Sussex Beacon, click here: