AN annual paint-powered fun run in aid of a brain injury charity will go online for the first time due to coronavirus.

Headway Essex’s Colour5k at the Ardleigh showground had been due to take place later this month.

But the eighth event can no longer go ahead and the charity, which has been hit hard by the pandemic, fears it will suffer a dip in income as a result.

Instead charity bosses have decided to organise a virtual Colour5k, urging people to walk, run, skip or dance from their homes, gardens or while out for their daily exercise.

While runners are normally dowsed in powder paint as they run, the charity will be asking people to dress up in their most colourful attire.

Participants can do the challenge in one go or over several days or even weeks but it must be completed by the end of July.

People of all ages and abilities can take part in exchange for a donation

Anyone raising more than £25 as part of their fundraising efforts, will receive a stunning Colour5k medal for their efforts.

The event will be sponsored by Attwells Solicitors.

Headway provides support to adults with acquired brain injury and their families.

Tracy Wellsted, Headway Essex’s fundraising manager said; “It’s still a difficult time right now, yet as people find solace in exercise, we’re hoping the Virtual Colour5k will be a fun activity to focus on.

“We need as much support as possible so please sign up - dig out your funky leggings and colourful headband from the bottom of your drawers and get involved.”

Money raised from the event will go towards providing rehabilitation and support for brain injury survivors and their families and carers in Essex.

For more information, and to sign up visit www.headwayessex.org.uk.