More than 1,200 people enjoyed a fun run with added sparkle as the Glitter Run came to Taunton Racecourse.
The event on Saturday, June 16, was raising vital funds for St. Margaret’s Hospice. Participants, many in fancy dress, completed a 5k course while getting sprayed with non-toxic, biodegradable glitter at a series of glitter stations.
Among those taking part was a team from Musgrove Park Hospital in Taunton.
Health care assistant Emily Hitchens, who joined colleagues from Wordsworth ward for care of older people, said: “I did the Festive Fun Run for St. Margaret’s Hospice in December and absolutely loved it. When I told my colleagues about the Glitter Run, everyone wanted to get involved because we know the hospice does such an amazing job.
“It’s so important to give people the best possible care, and that’s what St. Margaret’s does. I know people who have been supported by the hospice, and the care their whole family received was second to none.”
The Mayor of Taunton Deane, Councillor Catherine Herbert, welcomed participants and thanked them for supporting St. Margaret’s Hospice before joining them on the Glitter Run.
She said: “On behalf of the 3,800 people who will be supported by St. Margaret’s Hospice this year, I would like to say a huge thank you to all of you for being here. Your sponsorship money will make a huge difference to people in your community.”
Saturday’s event came after more than 800 people took part in the charity’s first Glitter Run at Wincanton Racecourse in May. Headline sponsors of the two events were West Country Windows and Gibbins Richards, while other sponsors included Amicus Law, Clarks, Maitland Walker, Nuffield Health, Red Berry Recruitment and Not Just Travel – Barefoot & Beyond.
Sonia Bateman, events fundraiser at St. Margaret’s Hospice, said: “It’s been amazing how Somerset has really embraced the Glitter Run, with around 2,000 people joining in the fun at Wincanton and Taunton. We would like to thank everyone who took part and all the volunteers who helped make it such a success.
“Fundraising events like this are so important to St. Margaret’s Hospice. Every pound makes a difference, so by collecting sponsorship money our fabulous Glitter Runners are helping to support thousands of people across Somerset who are facing life-limiting illnesses.”
The Glitter Run coincided with the launch of the St. Margaret’s Hospice summer appeal. This year’s appeal aims to raise money to enable the charity to expand its Young Family Support Service, which helps children across Somerset facing the loss of a parent or someone they love.
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