MORE than 700 people, including some as far away as Sri Lanka, took part in this year's 'virtual' Oxford Mail OX5 Run to raise tens of thousands of pounds for Oxford Children’s Hospital.
Runners and walkers tackled the five-mile route in their local areas instead of at the usual picturesque grounds of Blenheim Palace.
Some participants did their bit for the charity from as far away as Manchester, Greece and even Sri Lanka.
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The annual charity run raises money to help local children in hospital – funding specialist equipment and better facilities.
For many Oxfordshire residents, it has become a cherished tradition to help the county's hospitals, and this year 760 people took part in the event, which is set to raise more than £85,000.
Lynne and Tom Hammond
Many of those running were parents and youngsters with first-hand experience of the hospitals, who want to give back as a thank you for the care their families have received.
Hundreds of NHS staff also took part, including workers from the microbiology labs, the radiology department, Horton children’s ward, nurses and porters.
Chief nursing officer Sam Foster, who ran with her 12-year-old daughter Ruby, said: "This is the biggest fundraiser for our children’s hospital and children’s services in our trust, so we are really thrilled the event managed to go ahead virtually this year.
Sam and Ruby Foster
"Me and Ruby did a really hilly route near our home and the wind was against us, but there was a sense of togetherness as we knew so many people were also running in their local areas."
Christopher Miles laced up his trainers to join the virtual fun run around his village near Witney.
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After completing his five miles, his children set up their own event in their garden, helping bring the community spirit to this very special run.
Mr Miles said: "This event makes such a difference to local children and their families in hospital, and I could not think of a better charity to support."
Jay Jayamohan
Another participant was Kate Hughes from Abingdon, who is a mum of three.
Her son Theo was treated for bronchitis during Christmas in 2017.
She said: "The hospital will always have a special place in our hearts, and we will always be grateful for how it has looked after our family."
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