Organisers of a themed colour run inspired by the charity’s largest ever appeal are ‘completely overwhelmed’ after raising over £40,000 to grow cancer services across the region.
The Sunflower Sprint was delivered last weekend by the region’s primary cancer charity to boost funds for its £5million Sunflower Appeal to develop cancer services in Telford.
So far, Lingen Davies has raised over £800,000 for the appeal with a recent boost of £250,000 in match funding from Telford & Wrekin Council.
Over 750 people took on the 5k colour run in three locations, with staggered runs taking place in Telford Town Park, Leaton Forest in Shrewsbury, and Meadow Springs Country & Leisure Park outside Caersws.
Designed around an immersive sunflower theme, the event last weekend gave participants the opportunity to sprint, skip, or saunter around off-road routes while being doused with yellow, orange, and green powder paint.
Emilie Kerr, Events and Marketing Coordinator at Lingen Davies, said: “We’re still completely overwhelmed after what can only be described as the best boost to our £5million appeal. Not only did this event raise over £40,000 for the Sunflower Appeal, but it also got everyone talking about cancer and the huge impact we make as a charity for those across the region whose lives have been affected by the disease.
“Based on the incredible feedback we’ve already received from participants and the amount of smiles we saw on the day, it’s clear that everyone loved this fun twist on our much-loved colour runs.
“A huge thank you must go to the wonderful volunteers and members of staff who made the day a resounding success, and to Leaton Forest, Meadow Springs Country & Leisure Park, and Telford & Wrekin Council for their continued support” she added.
Lingen Davies Cancer Support is the primary cancer charity for people affected by cancer in Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin, and Mid Wales.
Last year the charity launched its biggest appeal to date – a £5million Sunflower Appeal to fund the development of a Lingen Davies Cancer Centre at Telford’s Princess Royal Hospital by 2029. This development will double chemotherapy capacity across the region as well as delivering outpatients’ clinics and new lung and urology diagnostic clinics.
Emilie Kerr, Events and Marketing Coordinator at Lingen Davies, with Sunny the mascot at Leaton Forest for the Shrewsbury location of the Sunflower Sprint.
