Runners raise almost £40,000 for Sussex children’s charity

Around 130 volunteers chose to raise sponsorship money for Chestnut Tree House by running as part of Team Chestnut.

This included Steve Bird, from Burgess Hill, who was the first Team Chestnut runner across the finish line and Andrew Spencer, 33, who ran the half in full cricket gear for the charity.

Steve, who completed the race in one hour and 28 minutes, said: “It was very windy, but a fantastic day, and lots of money was raised for fantastic causes.

“I’d like to say a big thank you to everybody who was out on the course supporting the Chestnut Tree House runners.”

Andrew Spencer completed the half marathon in two hours and 17 minutes, raising £1,400 for Chestnut Tree House.

He said: “It was pretty difficult to be honest, with the 50 mph winds, but I’m really pleased I’ve done it.

“It was great to have all the support - everyone cheering on from the side-lines and handing out jelly babies really kept me going!”

Events fundraiser for the charity, Andrew Battley, said: “We are so grateful to Team Chestnut and it was wonderful to have such a diverse group of people take part in the Brighton Half this year.

“It’s always great to see our regular runners, but equally, it was inspiring to meet many first-time runners who had chosen to take on their first challenge for us.

“Your support is invaluable to Chestnut Tree House. Because of you, we can provide 24-hour care, love and laughter to local children with life-shortening conditions and their families”.

The charity provides specialist palliative care services to 300 children and young people aged 0-19 with life-shortening conditions in East Sussex, West Sussex and South East Hampshire.

More information about the charity can be found at its website and information on supporting the charity in the upcoming BM10k on April 19 can be found here.