Fundraisers ensure a dash of colour greets last ever St Michael’s Hospice Paint Runner
Hundreds ensured Hereford’s messiest fundraiser went out in a blaze of colour.
The last-ever Paint Runner took place on the city’s King George V Playing Fields on Saturday.
Over the years, the family-friendly event has raised more than a quarter of a million pounds for Bartestree-based St Michael’s Hospice.
Organisers say they are busy planning an exciting replacement for Paint Runner to take place in the same weekend next year.
“Saturday morning might have been dull weather-wise, but our supporters helped brighten the centre of Hereford,” said Matt Ashcroft, the Hospice’s Events & Community Fundraising Manager.
“It was great to see so many happy faces, of all ages, enjoying themselves.”
Supporters ran, jogged or walked the five-kilometre course which took them across the Old Bridge, past the Cathedral and through the Castle Green, before returning to the playing fields.
Along the way they negotiated numerous paint stations, leaving them part covered in a kaleidoscope of colour.
Matt added his thanks to event sponsors Clear Storage and Paint Station sponsors Fluidmaster for their backing, adding there was a mix of emotions at the end.
“We’re sad to say goodbye to Paint Runner, which has been such a good friend to St Michael’s Hospice over the years,” he said.
“But we’re excited by what might replace it, andcan’t wait to let everyone know our plans in due course.
“As always though, it’s our supporters who help bring our events to life. All ages and all abilities have caught the Paint Runner bug over the years. So, to everyone who has been splattered by paint, thrown paint, or sponsored those taking part, I’d like to say a huge thank you.
“St Michael’s Hospice relies heavily on the generosity of our community. We couldn’t continue providing free-of-charge care without you.”
