Nearly 200 women took to the pitch at the Welford Road Stadium to help raise thousands for the Leicester Mercury's LOROS Appeal. Runners found a carnival atmosphere at the home of the Leicester Tigers, with music booming from the speakers and refreshments served throughout the day. Participants either ran or walked 5km around the pitch. Everyone who took part contributed £25 to the appeal. Many of the participants had also raised sponsorship cash. The Mercury Appeal was launched last year to raise money for the Willow Wing extension at LOROS hospice, in Groby Road, Leicester. So far, readers have helped collect more than £234,000 towards the cost of the extension, which opened in October.
Yesterday's event, I Do It For LOROS, was organised by Marisa Spiteri, the hospice's corporate fund-raiser, and personal trainer Charlotte Thompson. Charlotte, who started raising money for the charity five years ago, said she was delighted with the turnout. She took part in a number of group runs through the day and completed about 12 miles in total.
She said: "It was a really great day for everyone and we had runners of all abilities. Even my mum borrowed a pair of trainers so she could have a run. I'm hopeful that we've managed to raise more than £5,000, which is a really good effort from everyone involved."
Marisa said: "It has been fantastic and we've raised a wonderful amount of money for the appeal. “Everyone has had a really great time and there was a nice atmosphere on the day. People were mixing with each other and having fun."
Among those taking part was Kay Johnson, wife of England rugby manager Martin, who was there with their seven-year-old daughter, Molly. Kay said: "I managed the 5km in about half an hour, which I was more than happy with, but it was more about raising the money for LOROS. It's a great charity that has helped out a lot of people."
Lottie Crane, 14, from East Langton ran with her mum and sister. She said: "I found it quite easy and I enjoyed the whole day. It was important to raise as much money as possible for a really good cause. I know some people that have died from cancer. It's really good that LOROS does so much to help people."
Novice runner Lora Starkings, 29, from Shepshed, went along with mum Megan, from Loughborough. She said: "I've only ever done one 5km run before so it was pretty tough going but I'm proud of myself for completing it. "My mum runs quite often so she was fine. We're both Tigers fans and we came along to support LOROS – it's a great charity."