TWO of the Vale's biggest fundraising events are set to take place this weekend.

Thousands of pounds will be raised as hundreds of people take part in Evesham's 24 hour long Relay for Life.

Organisers of the Cancer Research UK fundraiser are hoping to tip the £100,000 mark as they aim for their highest target yet.

The event kicks off at noon on Saturday (June 28) and lasts until midday the next day as 33 teams of a total of 520 participants, 58 of which are survivors, complete laps around the course at Evesham High School.

Paul Baylis, event organiser, said he was hopeful they would reach the £100,000 after raising more than £80,000 last year.

"I can't wait for the weekend. We have an online total raised of over £60,000 and we are still hoping to raise £100,000. The Twilight Walk alone has raised £14,500 already. The relay really is Evesham's biggest fundraising event.

"We will be having a live link with another relay in Santa Monica in California and we are just hoping for the weather now."

He also thanked Tesco for its support after receiving supplies for the event from the supermarket giant.

"They really have gone over and above," he added. "I really must say a big thank you to everyone who has been involved."

Across the town fundraisers will swap trainers for football boots for the weekend as they get involved in the Growers United FC tournament.

This event, which is free but will raise money for Birmingham Children's Hospital and Cancer Research UK, aims to promote partnership and interaction between communities and businesses.

During the weekend long event at Evesham Football Club's ground 32 teams will take part in a football tournament, children will play matches as will two women's teams. There will also be a range of other activities alongside a food market.

Bal Padda, one of the organisers, said: "In recent years our community has become truly international and this event is designed to not only raise funds for two wonderful causes, I believe it helps really bring us together and work together.

"Sport and food, what more could you wish for."

The tournament is supported by Red Tractor Food Assurance, with players wearing Red Tractor logos on their shirt sleeves, showing their commitment to growing quality assured fruit and veg in the area.