More than 1,600 children and young people took part in the annual Community Hospice Mini Marathon this Sunday, 10 May. The popular event sold out and brought families together from across Greenwich, Bexley and surrounding areas.
The Hospice Mini Marathon, organised by Community Hospice, saw children aged 5–16 running 2.62 miles through Royal Greenwich Park to raise essential funds for local hospice care. The event created a lively, welcoming atmosphere for families, with children cheering one another on and supporters lining the route. Nearly half of those taking part were new supporters. As the event continues to grow in reach every year, so does the strong community appetite to support care close to home.
The day was made possible thanks to the support of local partners, including JLL, the event’s long‑standing corporate sponsor, alongside Better Gym and Greenwich Runners, who helped bring energy and encouragement to the start line.
In total, the Hospice Mini Marathon is on track to raise over £60,000 through registrations, sponsorship and donations. The funds will help Community Hospice continue providing free care and support to people living with a terminal illness, at home, in hospital or at the hospice, as well as supporting those close to them. The event was attended by Cllr Linda Bird, Mayor of the Royal Borough of Greenwich, who cheered on participants and presented medals at the finish line, alongside the Pearly Queen of Greenwich, Gwen Jones, and the Pearly King and Queen of Woolwich, Clive and Kim Bennett, who attend every year to cheer on runners and hand out medals.
Among the runners were some particularly moving stories. Oscar Moore, who finished in first place with a time of 14:30, takes part each year in memory of his grandmother, who was cared for by Community Hospice. Oscar runs to show his appreciation for the care his family received. Second place went to Noah Collins, who completed the course in 15:32. Noah ran in recognition of both of his grandads, who were supported by the hospice.
Their stories reflect what the Hospice Mini Marathon is all about, children, young people and families coming together to remember, give thanks, and support care for others in their community.
Augusta Adu, Community & Events Manager at Community Hospice said:
“Our Hospice Mini Marathon brings our community together in the most powerful way. We’re so thankful for the incredible passion, generosity and support shown by everyone who took part; it made the day really special.”
Community Hospice supports thousands of people each year, with most of its care funded by charitable giving. Events like the Hospice Mini Marathon play a fundamental role in making sure care remains available to everyone who needs it.
Aneta Saunders, CEO at Community Hospice said:
“It may have been cold on Sunday, but the warmth of over 1,600 runners more than made up for it. The atmosphere was incredible – full of energy, encouragement (and proof that some dads still have some catching up to do!).
I was truly inspired by seeing so many families coming together to celebrate life. I was especially moved by the many young runners raising funds in memory of someone they love – sharing their stories so openly and with such heart.
Our hospice exists because of our community, and that support means more than ever this year. It’s what enables us to support people to live as well as they can, for as long as they can, with the care and dignity they deserve.
A huge thank you to everyone who ran, supported and made the day happen – you’ve made a real difference”
Families travelled from across southeast London, Kent and beyond, including Aldershot and Italy, showing just how strongly people connect with the Hospice Mini Marathon and its cause.
Community Hospice has thanked all the children, young people, families, volunteers and supporters who made the sold-out event such a success.
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About Community Hospice
Community Hospice is a local charity providing free support to people living with a terminal illness and their families and carers. For over 30 years, we have been a trusted part of the Greenwich and Bexley community, offering compassionate care in patients’ homes, care homes, Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Woolwich, and our 13-bed inpatient unit in Abbey Wood.
Our team looks after the whole person, supporting physical, emotional, social, spiritual, and psychological needs. We help people to live as well as they can, for as long as they can. As a charity, we rely on the generosity of our local community, including support through fundraising events like the Hospice Mini Marathon, to continue providing most of the care we deliver to those who need us most.
For more information about Community Hospice or how to get involved, visit communityhospice.org.uk
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