9 Sep 2016 Community

Runners take to the trail for Kirkwood Hospice

Three hundred runners laced up for annual Kirkwood Hospice Trail Run on Sunday 4th September, helping to raise thousands of pounds for the charity.

A huge number turned out to take part in the fifth annual Kirkwood Hospice Trail Run last Sunday.

Despite the heavy downpours of the previous day, the weather stayed fine for the most part at the Leeds Road Sports Complex, with a few rays of sunshine even managing to break through the clouds throughout the morning.

The 5 and 10k event, founded by John Philpott in memory of his late wife Joanne, continues to go from strength to strength, with around three hundred runners testing themselves in the timed race and helping to raise vital funds for Kirkwood.

It was perfect running weather for the hundreds of participants who lined up at the start line to take on the flat and scenic course. Starting at Leeds Road Playing fields, the race also took in the leafy towpaths of the Huddersfield Broad Canal.

For many of the runners, it was their first ever race, whereas for others, it was a warm up for next weekend's Great North Run.

Many participants donned exclusive Trail Run vests for the race, creating a swathe of white amongst the multi-coloured shirts of runners representing the clubs.

The Trail Run has become a poignant event for many who take part, including Joanne Philpott's best friend, Vicki Davenport.

For Vicki, it was a day of mixed emotions, as she and her family came along to remember her dear friend, who died six years ago last weekend, aged just 50.

"Being involved today is quite emotional, especially when running and thinking of Joanne. The Trail Run helps us to keep Joanne's memory alive." Vicki Davenport

Vicki's business, The Pink Link, has sponsored the event since 2012.

She said: "Joanne was such a special person. She was loved by so many people so this is a special day for lots of people.

"Joanne was my best friend for thirty years so when John first decided to do this, sponsoring the event was a no brainier.

"When Joanne died it was an horrendous time for all of us. This has become a great thing to do in her memory for us and for her family too."

"It's great because both our families get together to run the event or help out in memory of Joanne.

"Being involved today is quite emotional, especially when running and thinking of Joanne. The Trail Run helps us to keep Joanne's memory alive."

Kirkwood Hospice would like to thank event sponsors The Pink Link and The Woodman Inn. The Hospice are also indebted to Shepley Spring and to the many volunteers who helped to make the event such a success.

To see race times from the event click here.

To see a gallery of photos from the event at: www.markflynnphotography.com/kwtrailrun

A Facebook gallery is also available, featuring lots more photos from the Trail Run. Click here to see them.