Hundreds took to the streets of Tunbridge Wells for fitness, fundraising and memories at Hospice in the Weald’s annual Hospice Run in Tunbridge Wells on Sunday September 17.
All the runners gave their all for Hospice in the Weald, taking part in the new family fun run and half-marathon, along with the classic 5k and 10k routes.
Special guest, Paralympian table tennis player Will Bayley, who is set to compete in Paris next year, gave the crowds a few words of encouragement before they set out.
There were emotional scenes at the finish line as participants celebrated not only their achievements but the lives of loved ones who had received hospice care. Sisters Lottie, Olivia and Issy Ramsey were part of ‘Sue’s Jovials’, a family team who together with friends ran the 10k route in memory of their mum, Sue Ramsey, who had been cared for at the Hospice in October 2021. By race day, they had already raised more than £3,000, and funds were still coming in.
Lottie said: “After everything Mum went through, we wanted to put in some hard work and give back for the incredible care she received at the Hospice in Pembury.
Issy added: “We were also able to stay overnight with Mum at the Hospice and bring our dog Marnie too, which made all the difference. Mum did the 10k route about five years ago, in memory of her own mum, who was also cared for at the Hospice, so we did it for our grandma and our mum. Taking part in events like this is so important as it keeps Mum’s memory alive and helps us feel closer to her.”
Jesse Ansbro-Brett, Relationship Manager at Hospice in the Weald said: “Thank you so much to all who helped to make Hospice Run 23 such an incredible event. That includes every single runner, our donors, ambassadors, staff, volunteers and all the local people and businesses who so generously supported this special community event. More than £91,000 was raised, with funds still coming in. Every penny will help Hospice in the Weald continue to make a vital difference to the lives of those in our community facing terminal illness and their loved ones.”
