Runners go the distance for their local hospital

A team of 28 dedicated runners proudly represented Warrington and Halton Teaching Hospitals Charity (WHH Charity) at the Warrington Running Festival – a day filled with pride and community spirit.

The festival, held on Sunday 21 September, brought thousands of people into the heart of Warrington to take part in the half marathon, 10k, 5k and junior races. Among them were fundraisers who chose to run every mile in support of their local hospital, making a difference that will be felt by patients and families across the Trust.

Twelve of the runners laced up in aid of the Willow Tree Hub Appeal – helping to create a calm, purpose-built space at Warrington Hospital where families can find comfort and support during some of life’s most difficult moments. The other 16 participants ran for WHH Charity’s Making a Difference Appeal, which helps fund hospital services and teams where it’s needed most.

Among the charity’s fantastic fundraisers were Paul James and Sarah Nuttie, who both went the extra mile – quite literally – for causes close to their hearts.

Paul, a familiar face at Warrington Hospital as a wayfinder and help desk volunteer, has long supported WHH Charity with his thoughtful donations of hundreds of chocolate eggs each Easter to cheer up patients. This year, he took on the 5K route and has already raised more than £2,600 for the Making a Difference Appeal.

Meanwhile, consultant midwife Sarah Nuttie challenged herself to the half marathon in aid of the Willow Tree Hub Appeal, raising over £2,400 to help create a safe, comforting space for families at Warrington Hospital.

Sarah said: “Running the half marathon was such a huge personal challenge – and to be honest, it was really tough on my knees – but every step was worth it knowing I was supporting the Willow Tree Hub Appeal. The hub will mean so much to the families we care for, giving them comfort and support during some of the hardest times. I’m so thankful for everyone’s encouragement – it really kept me going on the day.”

Every stride told a story of generosity and determination, with support continuing to grow as the community rallies behind the runners and their causes.

Helen Higginson, head of fundraising at WHH Charity, said: “We are absolutely blown away by the passion and commitment shown by everyone who took on the Warrington Running Festival for WHH Charity. Every mile they ran will directly benefit patients and families in our care. On behalf of the charity, I want to say the biggest thank you – you’ve gone above and beyond and we couldn’t be more grateful.”

For WHH Charity, the festival wasn’t just about running – it was about coming together, showing pride in the community and proving the incredible things that can be achieved when people unite for a cause close to home.

We are hoping to raise £10,000 and donations can still be made through our fundraising pages:

• The Making a Difference Appeal via its JustGiving page
• The Willow Tree Hub Appeal via its JustGiving page

Please use #RunningFestival as a reference when donating.