The second annual Relay for Life, the world’s largest fundraising event for cancer prevention and detection, is set to go ahead today and tomorrow.

Teams will take turns walking laps around a track for 24 hours to raise awareness and funds, some of which will go towards improving access to treatment through the local establishment of radiation therapy.

The rest will be donated to the American Cancer Society to help to fund cancer research, prevention and care programmes.

Participants are encouraged to stop by the event’s Luminaria Tent to dedicate small paper lanterns to loved ones they have lost to cancer or to those who are fighting the disease.

Ironshore has resumed its role as title sponsor for the Relay For Life. Last year the event raised more than $450,000 and it is hoped more will be raised this year. The event is being held on the North Field of the National Sports Centre, beginning at 6.30pm. Teams can check in at the Frog Lane or Roberts Avenue entrances from 11am.