Sue Ryder Care Boxing Day fun run axed
The annual Boxing Day event for Sue Ryder Care's Leckhampton Court Hospice has been called off after organisers said it wasn't a cost-effective means of raising cash.
It means hundreds of residents who take part in the event, which starts at the Cheltenham hospice every year, will be left disappointed.
Jo Partridge, area fundraising manager for Sue Ryder Care, said: "Our benchmark is to raise £3 for every £1 spent. Unfortunately the fun run doesn't achieve this.
"The limitations of the site mean that we cannot safely look to increase participation, so we need to look at other fundraising opportunities that have the potential to raise more money for patients with life-limiting illnesses."
The run had been held for more than 20 years and had become a highlight of the festive season.
Regular participant Gareth Thomas, 34, said: "It's a shame that the fun run will no longer be taking place. I've been doing it for the past seven or eight years and always thought it was a great event.
"I think a lot of people saw it as a springboard for turning over a new leaf after indulging a bit too much at the Christmas table a day before.
"It was just a brilliant way to get outside, do something healthy, and raise some money for a good cause."
Sian Harris, events organiser at Sue Ryder Care, said: "We really appreciate the support we've had for the fun run over the years.
"The team is continuing to plan a full schedule of other events to raise the vital funds needed for the Leckhampton Court Hospice.
"We hope that people understand the difficult position we face and continue to support the hospice."
In 2007, residents complained when the entry fee for the run trebled from £5 to £15. Organisers blamed the cost of health and safety on the price rise.
The Leckhampton Court facility is the only inpatient hospice in Gloucestershire, and supports up to 120 sufferers of life-shortening illnesses each week, plus their families and carers.
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