Solstice Saunter for Sue Ryder Manorlands Hospice

Organised by The Airedale Dodgers running club to raise money for Sue Ryder Manorlands Hospice in Keighley, the 10km Solstice Saunter through the glorious grounds of Bolton Abbey was a sell-out.

Despite clashing with the final England game in the group stages of the Euros, the target of 500 participants was met with flying colours, with people from far and wide taking part in the run to support the cause.

Speaking as someone that ‘doesn’t do running’, and had previously shunned the sport, I can safely say that I now understand what all the fuss is about.

There was a real sense of comradery and togetherness amongst both staff and runners. The atmosphere, married with the picture perfect landscape of Bolton Abbey made the whole event just that little bit more memorable.

The route was a challenging one (for us lot anyway!) leading us across a mix of terrain and up some fairly steep tracks and hillsides.

With the sun from the longest day of the year still beating down on us, we finished the race. Tired but triumphant, there was a real sense of achievement from all who took part.

We are over the moon to have been picked as the main sponsor. Like the Manorlands Hospice and everyone at the Airedale Dodgers, we’re all about enhancing people’s wellbeing and improving lives.

All finishers received a bespoke medal, bottle of Timothy Taylor beer, and a Fenetic Wellbeing water bottle to boot.

But the real takeaway from the experience was that of personal achievement, and the knowledge that it was all in the name of helping others – as we try to do every day.