IN DIFFERENT circumstances, tomorrow (Sunday) would have seen the 40th annual London Marathon take place, with thousands of runners challenging themselves to complete the iconic 26.2 mile course.

With the postponement of this year’s event due to the Covid-19 outbreak, the team at London Marathon have created the nationwide virtual fundraising event #TwoPointSixChallenge to help UK charities.

Individuals are invited to select an activity based around the numbers 2.6 or 26, which can be completed safely within the Government guidelines for social distancing.

The Isle of Wight Melodic Choir have taken on the challenge in aid of The Wight Brainy Bunch, having raised £1,900 for the charity in November with two Mamma Mia concerts, and will host a 26 song 'singathon' via Zoom tomorrow, with videos being posted on their Facebook page.

To show your support and encourage them in their challenge, please visit uk.virginmoneygiving.com/KayDeLacy

Kay De'Lacy, the Melodic Choir leader, said: “The daily songs are chosen by myself or suggested by the choir members, and all have a similar theme of being positive and uplifting.

"Some of our members live alone or are poorly, so the daily song brings everyone together. Music really is the best medicine.”

The song choice is announced daily at 11.30am on the Melodic Facebook page and performed at 4pm. More information is available by emailing kay_delacy@hotmail.co.uk

Kathryn Grimes, founder of the Wight Brainy Bunch, said: “The current situation is really challenging for charities, as it is for businesses and families.

" As a small charity we are having to explore alternative approaches to fundraising and have been overwhelmed by people’s ingenuity, ability to adapt and willingness to help, even though they may be going through tough times themselves.

"Unfortunately, although fundraising has virtually ceased for the time being, the devastating diagnosis of a brain tumour has not, and there are many families on the Island still requiring our help through these difficult

times.”