On Sunday December 15th, Simon’s Heroes children’s charity held its inaugural Abbott Antler Fun Run in Tamworth Castle Grounds, bringing festive cheer and raising over £700 for their cause.
The sell-out fundraising event, originally postponed due to Storm Darragh, invited participants to run or walk a family-friendly 5K while dressed in festive costumes. Prizes were awarded for the best-dressed family, adult, and child. Adding a touch of Christmas magic, Tamworth Round Table provided Santa Claus, who started the event with a countdown and handed out medals to participants. Guests also enjoyed hot drinks and cakes served in the Commonwealth in Commonhealth Centre.
Charlotte Abbott, Chairman of Simon’s Heroes, expressed gratitude to Tamworth Borough Council for their support: ‘We are grateful to Tamworth Borough Council for giving us this opportunity. Their support and guidance was invaluable. We raised over £700 from the event, which is a wonderful starting point for our first fun run.
‘It was a fantastic sight to see everyone in fancy dress. There was a great sense of community spirit and atmosphere.’
Congratulations went to Keith Garner, Phoebe Garner, and Rachel Statham for winning the prize for Best Dressed Family, with Amy Foster and Olivia Griffin recognized as Best Dressed Adult and Child respectively.
‘Thank you to everyone that took part, baked cakes, volunteered and supported. Special thanks to Tamworth Round Table, your presence added the Christmas magic.’
Simon’s Heroes also acknowledged the generosity of businesses and individuals who donated their time and resources to the event including Tamworth Co-op, Bodnetts Farm Shop, Moor Hall Hotel and Spa, Prontaprint, Gayton’s Bakery, Namco Funscape, the SnowDome, Coppice Lifestyle, Jon Allen and Wendy Denton from Tamworth Parkrun, Michelle Darlaston from Tamworth Borough Council, Jamie Walton from Tamworth Round Table and photographers Bob Cooper and Jon Stonely.
The Abbott Antler Fun Run is dedicated to Karen Abbott, a very inspirational lady and dearly loved member of the charity, who sadly passed away in March 2016. Karen made a huge contribution to Simon’s Heroes, having participated in countless races, raising funds and offering her support when needed.
Simon’s Heroes aims to improve the quality of life and make a positive difference to children with long term health issues in the local community. It raises money through fundraising events and corporate sponsorship to provide life enhancing aid, treats and experiences that make a meaningful difference. Find out more at simonsheroes.org.uk.
Looking Ahead: With a successful first event under its belt, Simon’s Heroes is already planning for next year’s Abbott Antler Fun Run, promising another opportunity for the community to come together, celebrate, and make a difference.
C Abbott.
