KEMP Hospice are celebrating the return of their live Santa Fun Run which took place at Brinton Park, Kidderminster on Sunday 5th December. Over 380 Santa’s braved the chilly weather to take part, marking the return of the live event after being forced to take place virtually in 2020.
Coralie Hudson, KEMP Hospice Fundraiser said, ‘Last year, because of covid restrictions at the time, we had to hold the event virtually and though we were really pleased with the level of support, nothing compares to the excitement of welcoming everyone back to Brinton Park for the live event. Whilst everyone remains cautious about the pandemic, we were so thrilled to see so many Santa’s on the day, with families, running groups, individuals and kids all taking part’.
The annual winter event, which for many local people marks the start of the Christmas countdown, has attracted hundreds of runners for over a decade. Coralie continued, ‘those taking part have once again been working hard to raise an amazing amount to support KEMP Hospice. Though we’re waiting for a final figure, we’re on track for a record year and cannot thank all the runners enough for their support. We’re also very grateful to all the marshals and registration teams who kindly volunteered their time and helped to make the event such a success’
The KEMP Hospice Santa Fun Run was this year sponsored by Blisstech Solutions and Eureka Financial Solutions. Matt Yarranton, Director at Blisstech Solutions who took part in the run said ‘Despite the cold, it was a fantastic day and incredibly well organised. It was great to see so many people out to support KEMP, and the support from people along the route was fabulous. The surreal sight of hundreds of Santa’s running through Kidderminster cannot help but put a smile on your face!’
KEMP were also pleased to see so many running groups taking part, including Wonky Donkeys, The Gym Group Kidderminster, Cleobury Running Club, Actively Stronger, Amazing Feet Running Club. Human Everything, who set up a couch to 5k group also took part with the 5k race the culmination of all their hard work and weekly training. Crowds were entertained and warmed up thanks to Lisa Bradbury and official 10k timing was available thanks to Kidderminster & Stourport Athletic Club.
KEMP also invited supporters to take part virtually and one such lady is Debbie Broomfield, who has not only signed up for their Santa Fun Run but has also been volunteering with the hospice for 8 years in their day hospice and at fundraising events. She has so far raised over a staggering £1,542 on her Just Giving page.
Speedo Santa is also taking part again virtually, and this year he is bringing along a friend too. Robin Williams and Matt Overs will be running a 3.7km loop to make up a half marathon through the streets of Kidderminster from 10:30am on Sunday 19th December. They’ll be dressed in speedos, a Santa hat and of course a beard! KEMP welcomes supporters to come and give the fabulous team a wave and a cheer.
