MORE THAN 300 festive runners took to the streets of Kidderminster on Sunday for the 2025 KEMP Hospice Santa Fun Run.
The participants helped raise £17,000 to support local hospice care across the Wyre Forest.
The much-loved event is now in its 18th year and brings together families, seasoned runners, community groups and first-time participants. Everyone put on a Santa suit to support for KEMP Hospice’s compassionate, free-of-charge care for those facing life-limiting illnesses.
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Ian Carr, KEMP Hospice’s head of fundraising and communications, said: “We are absolutely thrilled with both the turn-out and the phenomenal amount raised this year.
“The Santa Fun Run is always a highlight of our fundraising calendar and seeing so many people come together in such a fun and positive way is truly heartwarming.
“Whether participants walked, ran, volunteered, or cheered from the sidelines, everyone played a part in helping us continue our vital work.
“We are incredibly grateful.”
Picture by Colin Hill. s
The event, which was sponsored by Talbots Law and Gaunts of Kidderminster, featured a timed 10K race, a festive 5K fun run and a 1K Santa Dash for children.
Bewdley Bootcamp led with an energetic warm-up at the ever-popular event, which moved to a new location this year – Wolverley Memorial Hall.
Anna, KEMP Hospice’s community and events fundraiser, said “The new starting location was so well received, with a great new route which saw 10K runners passing by KEMP Hospice- a great reminder of why their support is so important.
Picture by Colin Hill. s
“We also introduced some fun activities for their spectators to enjoy while they are out on the course, including a cafe, KEMP retail, crafts, and face-painting activities.
“It really was a family event and was wonderful to see so many people enjoying the festive fun.”
KEMP Hospice provides all its services completely free of charge, but delivering day hospice care, family support, and bereavement services costs around £2.1million every year.
Picture by Colin Hill. s
Funds raised from the Santa Fun Run will directly support these essential services, helping ensure KEMP can continue to be there for local individuals and families now and in the future.
Visit: kemphospice.org.uk for more on KEMP Hospice and to find out about supporting the charity’s work.
