Supporters unite in numbers for a Hospice Run to remember

Hospice in the Weald is proud to share that you, our supporters, came together in true community spirit for Hospice Run 2025. From beginners and seasoned athletes to those running in tribute to loved ones, your support created another event to remember.

Back for its 19^th year, the popular event saw more than 1,000 participants gather in the heart of Tunbridge Wells to take on one of the best closed-road routes in the South East in aid of Hospice in the Weald.

Offering a choice of 5k, 10k and half-marathon routes, and a family fun run, Hospice Run had something for all. Supporters lined the streets to cheer on runners, and all enjoyed the uplifting beats of the Old School Samba Band.

65-year-old Liz Hancock took part for the first time, having only started running earlier this year. Liz said: “I look after my mum full-time and wasn’t getting enough exercise. I’m 65 and thought ‘if I don’t start now, it will be too late!’ so I joined Beginners to Runners in Langton Green in January. I now run three times a week and wanted the challenge of the Hospice Run 5k today.”

Charlie Pierce, of Eastbourne, similarly only started her fitness journey in the New Year. She said: “This was my first-ever half-marathon. It was difficult, but I enjoyed it! I joined Eastbourne Rovers in January for their Couch to 5k programme. I’ve met amazing people and built up my training. Hospice Run was my next big goal. I didn’t ever think I’d be a runner – I guess I’ve changed that now!”

For Kirsty Cann, and teenage sons James and Henry, Hospice Run was a positive, if poignant, opportunity for family, friends and colleagues from PwC UK, to come together in memory of much-missed husband and father Andrew Cann. Andrew, who had pancreatic cancer, was cared for at the Hospice earlier this year.

“The atmosphere was amazing. Everyone was cheering us on. Andrew would have been very proud – especially of James and Henry. We want to do all we can – the Hospice was incredible,” said Kirsty.

“As a family, including our dog Roni, we lived in the Hospice for 13 days. They treated Andrew with so much care and respect. They washed our clothes, made our meals, sat and chatted with us, and took time to make sure we were all okay, 24 hours a day. All of this was completely free, which I still can’t get my head around.

“We want to do everything we can so that other families can get the support we received and have that time together – it’s so special. I know Andrew would have approved.”

Business support

Local businesses also stepped up, with Savills Tunbridge Wells as the headline sponsor, clocking up 19 years of support. Savills’ staff from across the region volunteered and took part in the Run.

Thanks to G Collins & Sons, everyone received a medal featuring a hand-drawn image by proud 11-year-old Connor Lawrence, who won a medal design competition at Pembury Primary School.

Personal trainers from Halo Gym offered online training tips to help participants prepare for the event and came along on the day, while The Massage Company provided soothing support.

Lisa Browning, Relationship Fundraising Manager at Hospice in the Weald, said: “We want to thank everyone who ran, cheered, volunteered, sponsored, and donated. Together you made Hospice Run 2025 truly special. We had blue skies and the atmosphere was amazing. Thanks to your support and generous match funding from the Freddie Green and Family Charitable Foundation, we have raised well over £140,000, with funds still coming in!

“Many people who took part, like Kirsty and her family, know from experience the difference Hospice in the Weald makes. Every penny raised will help us to continue to provide free care and support and to be there for everyone in our community who needs us.”