Kirkwood Hospice is on the trail to target

THE race is on to raise vital funds for a new and improved hospice facility for the district’s families.

Kirkwood Hospice has already raised £600,000 for its Capital Appeal, but there’s still a long way to go before the charity reaches its £3m goal.

A dedicated network of fundraisers has hosted all manner of activities to help raise cash to revamp the hospice’s 16-bed inpatient unit.

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Now one family is doing its bit by helping to organise a 10k run in memory of a loved one and in celebration of the charity’s 25th anniversary.

When John Philpott lost his 50-year-old wife to brain cancer in September 2010, Kirkwood Hospice was there to support his whole family.

Next month they will mark the anniversary of Joanne’s death with what they hope will become an annual race.

Mr Philpott, 58, of Stocksmoor, said: “The hospice supported me, not through looking after Joanne, but through counselling for me and our four children.

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“It’s a great cause and the race is all about trying to do something for them.”

Together with a team of other running enthusiasts and charity staff, he has organised the 25th Anniversary Trail Run on September 2.

The race is at Leeds Road Sports Complex in Huddersfield at 10.30am, with a one-mile children’s fun run at 9.30am.

Mr Philpott, a member of Holmfirth Harriers, said the event was meant for runners of all abilities.

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“We’re trying to get non-runners invovled, mainly to try to get people into running,” he said. “My daughters, Lauren and Sophie, who are certainly not runners are going to do it and will probably walk round.

“We just want to raise as much money as possible. I know there are lots of different races but we’re doing it as a memorial to Joanne and it would be great to make this an annual event.”

Money raised will go towards the Capital Appeal to fund the extension and refurbishment of the hospice in Dalton, Huddersfield.

Work has already begun on the redevelopment and it is hoped the improved inpatient unit will be ready open in June 2013.

The race costs £10 for adults and £5 for children. Phone Kate Leadbetter on 01484 557911 to register.

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