Rain doesn't dampen Children's Hospital fun run

Hundreds of runners came together on Sunday 26 March for the annual OX5 RUN in support of the Oxford Children's Hospital and children's services across our Trust.

The five mile run, organised by Oxford Hospitals Charity, took place at a rather wet and windy Blenheim Palace, but rain failed to dampen spirits for the 744 who took part on the day.

Runners were given a Zumba style warm up by George Martini, before being sent off on the Blenheim course by this year's official starter, seven year old Kaiden Edwards, who is recovering from a brain tumour.

This year's run was won by Sam Macaulay, in a super speedy time of 26 minutes and 45 seconds. The first woman across the line was Anna Kelly in 29 minutes and 32 seconds. Both Sam and Anna work at the Oxford Vaccine Group, which put in a large team on the day.

Many other hospital staff took part, including teams from Microbiology, Haematology, across the children's hospital and Paediatric Critical Care.

Gail Williams, from Oxford Hospitals Charity, said: "The weather may have been gloomy but our runners lit us all up – they were just amazing and there was such a special energy today.

"It was wonderful to see so many familiar faces who run every year, both families and our local community as well as hospital staff. It really means a lot.

"This event is such a team effort and we would like to share our thanks with our wonderful sponsors, Allen Associates, as well as JackFM, George Martini and, of course, Blenheim Palace."

It is hoped the event will raise over £100,000 to help fund specialist equipment and extra facilities for young patients at the Oxford Children's Hospital and children’s services across the Trust.

Photos from the day are on the charity's Facebook page.