A VIRTUAL balloon race in support of East Cheshire Hospice takes off next week.

The fundraising event will see competitors purchase and design a virtual balloon for £3 each, selecting its size, shape and colour.

In this second annual race, the balloons will take flight from East Cheshire Hospice on Monday, March 27, following the wind for a week until a winner who has travelled the furthest will win a prize of family-friendly vouchers on April 3.

Visit rabr.co/ech to enter, and call 01625 433477 or email fundraising@echospice.org.uk for more information.