You can sign up for a charity space in the popular Royal Parks Half Marathon and make a difference in the lives of patients and staff across East Kent Hospitals.
Participants will speed through four of London's stunning Royal Parks; Kensington Gardens, Hyde Park, St James's Park and The Green Park. The 13.1m extraordinary route brushes past London's most famous landmarks, including The Houses of Parliament, Trafalgar Square and Buckingham Palace - all on closed roads.
Last year’s charity entrants were seasoned runners Karen Middlemiss and Jim Pape. They raised almost double their target for Kent and Canterbury Hospital when they ran in October 2023. Their final total was an impressive £1,335 in donations, smashing their original target of £700.
Karen and Jim — members of the Hawkinge Hurricanes Running Club — have undertaken many running events over the years. This is the second time they have tackled this particular race together and Karen’s fourth time running it in total. They would both recommend it to other runners.
Karen said: “When we completed the half marathon it was such a hot day but there was a great atmosphere which really helped. The bands and choirs at the event attracted large crowds and hearing the people cheering you on did make it a lot easier.”
The pair have previously raised money running in support of various charities, including Tommy’s Charity, Cancer Research UK and Valley Hospital Charity. On this occasion they decided to run for their local hospital.
Karen and Jim organised a quiz in Adisham Village Hall to increase their sponsorship and fundraising total, which was attended by more than 100 people. This extra effort resulted in them nearly doubling their original target.
Jim said: “We both have friends and family who have been supported by Kent and Canterbury Hospital. We recognise the importance of our amazing NHS and we want to give it as much support as we can. I am very pleased that through my love of running I have had the opportunity to raise funds for such a worthy cause.”
If you are interested in taking on the Royal Parks Half Marathon to support East Kent Hospitals Charity, find out more here.
