Employees from Mortgage 1st in Chesterfield and Shepherd Distribution Services in Sheffield have shown their support for Bluebell Wood by participating in the Ladybower 25k and 52k Trail Run 2024 on Saturday, October 12th.

The Ladybower trail events, organised by RunThrough, have partnered with Bluebell Wood as their Charity of the Year for 2024. This collaboration inspired Shepherd Distribution and Mortgage 1st to not only sponsor Bluebell Wood’s runners at the event, but also to run the race themselves, aiming to raise significant funds for the children’s hospice, which supports families, children, babies, and young people in need.

Tom Abel from Shepherd Distribution, along with Lewis Atkins from Mortgage 1st, took on the 25k trail run around the picturesque Ladybower Reservoir, going above and beyond their companies’ sponsorship commitments to Bluebell Wood.

Lewis Atkins from Mortgage 1st said: “I’m running a half marathon to support Bluebell Wood Charity because I believe in their mission to provide care and support for children with life-threatening conditions and their families.”

“Their work makes a profound difference in the lives of those facing unimaginable challenges, and I want to contribute to that vital support. Every step I take is dedicated to helping create special memories for these families”

Tom Abel from Shepherd Distribution Services said, “One of the main reasons I decided to do this race is that I have always wanted to complete a marathon. I play football and have always been energetic, so I thought it would be a good step to take. Running helps me stay fit for football. Supporting Bluebell Wood Hospice was an easy choice as my family has always supported them through donations, and my sister used to volunteer there. Additionally, a friend from school was treated at Bluebell Wood when I was six years old.”

Courtney Beddingham, Regional Fundraiser at Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice, said, “We can’t thank Mortgage 1st and Shepherd Distribution Services enough for supporting Bluebell Wood. Their sponsorship for this event has been truly inspiring and their continued commitment to supporting local families experiencing the most difficult circumstances is wonderful.”

“The fact that they not only sponsored Bluebell Wood at the event but also took part just shows how committed they are to this vital cause and they have made a real difference to the families, children, babies, and young people we support. Thank you to both these wonderful organisations for making such a difference and for going the extra mile for Bluebell Wood.”