Over 100 marshals gave up their Saturday morning to bombard 1,400 participants with over one tonne of different coloured paints during Hereford’s happiest 5K run. The Paint Runner 2015 was St Michael’s Hospice most popular challenge event, and the wet conditions didn’t dampen people’s spirits.
Thumping beats and DJ Roddy Hankins got people dancing, creating a high energy party atmosphere to put people in the mood for a spectacular summer event.
Hospice supporter Natalia Silver from Dinedor, one of the 110 event marshals, said, ‘It was an amazing sight; everyone was smiling and the plumes of color rising from the trees made the King George V playing field look quite extraordinary.’
The Paint Runner hopes to raise over £25,000 for St Michael’s Hospice to help them continue to care for patients and their families. Emma Speedy, Social Worker at St Michael’s Hospice, said, ‘Because of all the people taking part, we can care for and support young people who have experienced a loved one’s life-limiting illness. Many young people supported by the Hospice have also taken part in the event, and it’s been wonderful to see them relax and have fun with others in the same situation.’
After finishing the 5K run and plastered in paint, Liam Neighbour from Hereford rounded off the audience participation by having his head shaved live on stage. Cheered on by the audience, Liam raised over £100, taking his Hospice fundraising total over £2,000. ‘I got into running earlier this year when I took part in the Hereford Half Marathon. St Michael’s is a charity very close to my heart and being part of The Paint Runner has been so exhilarating. I don’t think I have ever seen so many people looking so happy. No one cared what they looked like: they were just having the time of their lives.’
Participant Katie Tetley said, ‘Everyone knows someone in Hereford who has needed St Michael’s Hospice, or has used one of their services. The Paint Runner is one way my family can help.’
Matthew Ashcroft, Events Manager at St Michael’s Hospice, said, ‘The day is all about having fun with friends and family. I think the rain made the event more enjoyable and kept people cool while their white T-shirts turned multi-colored. We would like to thank everyone who helped make the event possible, especially our event sponsors Fastershire and all of the marshalls who helped make it safe and fun.’
Over 200 photos from the event can be seen on the St Michael’s Hospice Facebook page. For those wanting more colourful fun this month, St Michael’s Hospice have organised Paint Runner Wales, which will take place at the Royal Welsh Showground in Builth Wells, Powys on 27th June 2015. For details, visit www.st-michaels-hospice.org.uk.
Anyone wanting to join in the fun at next year’s event on Saturday 11th June 2016 can be placed on the priority entry list by emailing events@st-michaels-hospice.org.uk
