With two events coming together for the first time, next year’s Relay for Life in Wareham is expected to double in size.

Now in its 16th year, the town’s annual, American Cancer Society-sponsored event will merge with the Relay for Life of Plymouth County. Funds raised help the American Cancer Society provide support for people facing the disease and pay for cancer research

This year, both events attracted approximately 800 people each, said Susie Frost, community development manager for the American Cancer Society.

The reason for the merger, Frost said, was a decision to focus on having larger events in fewer towns. By merging, Frost said volunteers’ time will be better spent.

“We want to make sure everyone’s resources are being used correctly,” said Frost. “By combining them into one, we’re making sure it’s more enjoyable for everyone and it’s shaping up to be bigger and better.”

The event will remain in Wareham and feature all of the same activities as past Relays for Life, including the the luminaria event. During the luminaria, white bags are lit around the track in honor of those who died from cancer.

The new event, which will still be held at the Wareham Middle School track, will be called the Relay for Life of Plymouth County South.

During Relay For Life events, members of each team take turns walking or running around the track. Teams participate in fundraising in the months leading up to the event. On the day of the event, set for June 23, teams of people will walk the track continuously from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Frost said teams are forming now and encouraged people to consider starting or joining one. For more information, visit www.RelayForLife.org/plymouthcountyma.com, call 508-897-4390 or email: Susie.Frost@cancer.org.