Heaton Park in Higher Blackley is hosting a series of races, and runners are being offered a special deal if they raise funds for children’s hospice care. The first event is scheduled for Sunday, December 1, 2024, with additional runs on January 12, March 30, October 5, and November 30 in 2025. The park, which boasts the biggest and best park in the North West and is home to Heaton Hall, a Grade 1 listed neoclassical 18th-century house, will be the site of a 5k, 10k, and half marathon as part of the Run Heaton Park series. Francis House Children’s Hospice has been named the official charity partner for the event.
Participants aged 11 and above will receive 50% off the entry fee – £12 for the 5k, £13 for the 10k, and £14 for the half marathon – in return for pledging to raise a minimum of £50 in sponsorship. The course is an undulating 5km on tarmac paths within Heaton Park, M25 2SW. The race starts in the center of the park and consists of a flat section around the Heaton Park lake. Participants will encounter some challenging hills between 2 and 3 kilometers, which will take them around Heaton Hall and offer stunning views of Manchester. The lap ends with a downhill section. The 5k is one lap, the 10k is two laps, and the half marathon is four laps with an additional out and back section at the start.
James Ferguson, fundraising officer of Francis House, expressed his excitement for the event, stating, “Run Heaton Park in support of Francis House offers an incredible opportunity for our community to come together, get active, and make a real difference to the lives of the children and families who rely on the compassionate care provided by their local children’s hospice. As the charity sponsor, we are excited to support runners of all abilities, whether they are tackling the 5k, 10k, or half marathon.”
Francis House Children’s Hospice provides appropriate respite and end of life care for children and young people with life-limiting illnesses, as well as support for their families. Currently, the hospice supports approximately 2,000 people with respite care, homecare, sibling support, end of life care, and emotional and bereavement support.
The Run Heaton Park races are operated by RunThrough Events, and all races are chip-timed. Every finisher will receive a themed medal. Additionally, anyone running for Francis House will receive a Francis House branded running t-shirt, a fundraising pack, and in-person support on the day. Matt Wood, Co-Founder of RunThrough, shared his excitement for the partnership, stating, “We are thrilled to partner with Francis House Hospice for the Run Heaton Park race. Their incredible work supporting children and families in need makes this collaboration truly special. Running has always been about more than just the race – it’s about coming together to make a difference. We’re excited to help runners take on the challenge while supporting such a meaningful cause.”
Charity place registration closes 10 days before each event. For more information and to sign up, visit the Francis House website at https://www.francishouse.org.uk/get-involved/events/run-heaton-park-5k-10k-half-marathon/.
