A team of four families from Flamstead near St Albans, joined 2,200 fellow bubblers at The Hospice of St Francis’ Bubble Rush Herts on Sunday, to run in memory of a much-loved friend.
The 15-strong ‘Nic’s Army’ ran the 5km course in memory of mother-of-three Nicola Byrne, 43, also from Flamstead, who passed away at the Hospice just a few weeks ago.
Pandora Abel Smith, whose 10-year-old son Edward took part with his dad Oliver, said the team wanted to support the Hospice following the care that Nicola received.
“They all had a brilliant time running through the bubbles. It was the first time any of us had done Bubble Rush but we wanted to do something to support the Hospice,” she said.
The team, whose youngest member Dylan Norton was just four-years-old, were cheered on by Nicola’s family who came along to support them.
“They all said afterwards that they’d like to do it again so I’d like to think it’s something we’ll do every year in Nicola’s memory,” Pandora added.
So far Edward has raised more than £625 for the Hospice, smashing his original fundraising target of £250 and making him one of the top young Bubble Rush fundraisers.
People of all ages braved the chilly conditions to run or walk the 5km course round Gadebridge Park, Hemel Hempstead, through millions of colourful bubbles at four different bubble stations blowing out pink, blue, green and yellow frothy foam.
Many participants ran in memory of friends or relatives who have received or are receiving care and support at the Hospice but others took part for the fun of the event.
Lauren Parker, Bubble Rush Event Manager, said: “This year’s event was so much fun and it was terrific to see so many people running the course with big smiles on their faces despite the chilly temperature. There was such a lovely atmosphere as people turned out to support the Hospice and enjoy the fun of the bubbles.
“We have been so impressed with the amount of fundraising people have been doing in the run up to this year’s Bubble Rush – particularly by the children. We’d like to thank everyone for working so hard to raise money for us. Without such a tremendous level of support we wouldn’t be able to continue to provide care and support to patients and families across Herts and Bucks.
“There’s still time to set up a fundraising page and raise money for us as sponsorship money does not have to be in until June and everyone who raises more than £35 will get a free ‘Finn the Fish’ keepsake.”
To see photos of the day visit www.stfrancis.org.uk and Facebook: the hospiceofstfrancis
The Hospice’s next fundraising event will be The Midnight Walk, which returns on Saturday 16th June with a new and exciting route around Hemel Hempstead and Apsley.
For the first time, parts of the route will be beautifully lit by candlelight, will feature a cool UV zone, and walkers can enjoy strolling though the new ‘magical’ illuminated forest.
For more information and to sign up visit www.stfrancis.org.uk/midnightwalk
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