Fun way to boost hospital fund

MORE than a thousand people – some with their four-legged friends – joined in the Harefield Hospital Fun Run and Family Day on Sunday raising money for the Intensive Therapy Unit appeal.

AFANTASTIC turnout made this year’s Harefield Hospital Fun Run and Family Day a huge success as more than 1,000 people took part.

Sunday was the 35th time the event has been held and all money raised went to the hospital’s Intensive Care Unit.

Fundraisers are still in the process of calculating the amount raised but last year’s event raised a phenomenal £54,000.

At the inaugural Harefield Jog in 1981, legendary comedian Eric Morecambe fired the starting gun.

This year runners had a choice of 10 and five kilometre runs as well as a shorter walk or run.

There were also dance groups, a display of military and vintage vehicles, as well as a range of food, arts and crafts.

Joe Dunster, community and events fundraising manager for the hospital said: “Harefield Hospitals annual fun run and family day is a really important event within the charity calendar, not only does it help raise significant funds, it brings together the whole community and helps patients, staff and families celebrate the amazing and life-saving treatment this unique hospital provides provides.”” Proceeds from the charity day will go to the Intensive Care Unit as the hospital tries to fund six new rooms allowing for the treatment of 250 more patients a year.

ON TWO LEGS AND FOUR: Runners, some dressed in fairy wings and tutus, joined in the fun while helping to raise cash for Harefield Hospital

n FUN DAY: Having completed the run, some celebrated by having their faces painted

n THEY’RE OFF: And so it begins – runners begin their challenge

n HEAVE: Pulling together in a tug of war contest

n ARE YOU READY?: Warming up before the run begins