Run Heaton Park and raise funds for Francis House this December

Join Francis House Children’s Hospice in an exciting opportunity to Run Heaton Park and raise funds for hospice care.

Woman running on a tarmac path in a park with her arms in the air in front of a crowd — Sign up to Run Heaton Park in support of Francis House and take advantage of half price race entry fees.

Heaton Park in Higher Blackley boasts the biggest and best park in the North West and is home to Heaton Hall a Grade 1 listed neoclassical 18^th-century house.

As the official charity partner for this upcoming year’s Run Heaton Park series, Francis House is able to offer half price entry for the 5k, 10k and half marathon. In return for these significant savings, each competitor pledges to raise a minimum of £50 in sponsorship.

The first event is scheduled for Sunday, 1st December 2024, followed by additional runs on 12th January, 30th March, 5th October, and 30th November 2025.

James Ferguson, fundraising officer of Francis House said: “Run Heaton Park in support of Francis House offers an incredible opportunity for our community to come together, get active, and make a real difference to the lives of the children and families who rely on the compassionate care provided by their local children’s hospice.

“As the charity sponsor, we are excited to support runners of all abilities, whether they are tackling the 5k, 10k, or half marathon.”
James Ferguson, fundraising officer of Francis House

Francis House provides appropriate respite and end of life care for children and young people with life-limiting illnesses and the necessary support and short-term care for their families. It supports approximately 2,000 people at any one time with respite care, homecare, sibling support, end of life care and emotional and bereavement support.

The race route is an undulating 5km course on tarmac paths within Heaton Park, M25 2SW. Starting in the centre of the park, the first 2km consists of a flat section around the Heaton Park lake. Between 2 and 3 kilometres, some challenging hills take participants around Heaton Hall with spectacular views of Manchester. A welcome downhill section completes the lap. The 5k is 1 lap, 10k is 2 laps, and Half Marathon is 4 laps with an additional out and back section at the start.

Run Heaton Park races are operated by RunThrough Events. All races are chip-timed and every finisher will receive a themed medal. In addition anyone running for Francis House will receive a Francis House branded running t-shirt, fundraising pack and in person support on the day.

Matt Wood, Co-Founder of RunThrough, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership with Francis House Hospice: “We are thrilled to partner with Francis House Hospice for the Run Heaton Park race. Their incredible work supporting children and families in need makes this collaboration truly special.

“Running has always been about more than just the race—it’s about coming together to make a difference. We’re excited to help runners take on the challenge while supporting such a meaningful cause.”

To take advantage of a discounted charity place and receive 50% off the entry fee – £12 for the 5k, £13 for the 10k, and £14 for the half marathon (minimum age 11 and sponsorship commitment of £50) visit our event page here.