Sun shines and drums roll as hundreds take part in Hospice Run
21st September
From first time families to seasoned running pros – and even a determined supporter on crutches – more than 500 local people turned out to take part in Hospice Run in Tunbridge Wells on Sunday (18th).
Warm sunshine and the stirring sounds of the Old School Samba drums helped runners on their way as they set off from Lower Cricket Ground to complete the 5k or 10k circular routes on closed roads throughout the town, all to raise funds for Hospice in the Weald.
The popular event, sponsored by Savills with medals sponsored by HSBC, included a fun warm up with long standing supporter Steve Lindsey to help runners limber up.
Many at the event ran in memory of popular local teacher and keen runner Matt Green, who was cared for at Hospice in the Weald’s Cottage Hospice in Five Ashes before his death in August, aged 55.
Members of Tunbridge Wells Harriers, Wadhurst Runners and Park Run participants ran in tribute to him, along with many former students from Uplands Academy where Matt taught. Even being on crutches – and arriving home at 4am after going to see the Queen lying in State the night before the Run – did not deter former Uplands student Rianna Read.
“There are lots of us here who were taught by Mr Green,” said Rianna. “He was the best teacher. There was no way I was going to let being on crutches stop me from having a go today. I enjoyed it, although the hill near the end was tough!”
After completing the 10k route, Matt’s wife Ali, also a teacher and keen runner, said: “It’s lovely seeing all the support for Matt and the Hospice. Cottage Hospice is incredible, the nurses are brilliant. I just wish Matt was here to see this. He would have been so chuffed, although he would have probably pretended he wasn’t – he didn’t like being the centre of attention!”
Many families and children enjoyed the 5k route for the first time, including Willow Richards, winner of the Hospice’s medal design competition, and dad Robert. Everyone who completed the Run received a medal displaying Willow’s design in celebration of the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee – now an even more poignant keepsake.
Hospice in the Weald, based in Maidstone Road, Pembury with its pioneering home-from-home Cottage Hospice in Five Ashes, ensures everyone with a terminal illness, and those important to them, will always receive care that is completely free of charge.
Jesse Ansbro-Brett, Fundraising Manager at Hospice in the Weald, said: “We’d like to thank everyone who took part in or supported Hospice Run, including our wonderful volunteers and sponsors. Every penny raised helps Hospice in the Weald to provide care and support to local people facing terminal illness and their families.”
With a host of fundraising events, including the Hospice’s virtual Paddock Wood Half Marathon offering the opportunity to choose your own route to walk or run 13.1 miles anytime this September, local residents are being encouraged to visit the Hospice’s website hospiceintheweald.org.uk to lend their support.
Hospice in the Weald, based in Maidstone Road, Pembury with its pioneering Cottage Hospice in Five Ashes, ensures everyone with a terminal illness, and those important to them, will always receive care that is completely free of charge. Independent from the NHS, Hospice in the Weald needs to raise over £8million to provide vital Hospice care in west Kent and northern East Sussex. community. www.hospiceintheweald.org.uk
