Boxing Day runners raise money for Holy Cross

Hundreds of runners completed the traditional charity Boxing Day Run across Hindhead Commons, raising thousands of pounds for local good cause, Holy Cross Hospital.

Holy Cross Hospital is a specialist facility for people with serious and complex neurological conditions. The Boxing Day Run is an important local fundraiser for the hospital, organised by local runner, Matt Dellar and supported by several local businesses.

Chris Hinton, acting Chief Executive of Holy Cross Hospital says: “Whether we have a wet, windy, cold or mild Boxing Day, the runners always seem to enjoy themselves and create a jubilant atmosphere. On behalf of Holy Cross Hospital, I would like to thank them all for taking part and to congratulate them on completing a tough course. The winning times are astounding! They could all have stayed at home this Boxing Day, but they chose to hit the hills instead and I am very grateful to them.” 

428 runners completed the 3.5-mile cross country route which starts at the Devil’s Punchbowl Hotel and takes in the stunning countryside of Hindhead Commons. It is a hilly, sometimes muddy course but that did not put off the men, women and young people who took part. Runners can enter the standard race or the drinking event where they are served a pint of winter ale at mile two. 

Dave Ward reached the finishing line first with a time of 23.04 and, as well as coming first, was the men’s Drinking winner. Jolyon Dannatt was not far behind taking the Men’s race 1st place in 23:17. Robin Simons was the fastest female runner, completing the course in 24.45. The female winner of the drinking run was Becky Robinson in 26:15.

“I’d also like to thank Matt and all the companies that support the event, which this year includes SportsLocker, the Hogs Back Brewery, Wilson’s Electrical Distributors, Show Hire, Racetiming Solutions and Devil’s Punchbowl Hotel. The National Trust also generously supports the event in kind. Without all this help, the event simply wouldn’t raise the amount it does for us,” added Mr Hinton.

Holy Cross Hospital’s expert clinical and support staff team cares for 40 patients at a time in a warm and supportive environment, as well as welcoming the friends and families of patients when they visit. The hospital also runs a physiotherapy centre which offers a wide range of treatments including hydrotherapy to local people who choose to self-refer.

Caption — The start of the run by photographer Jo Martin. See more images from the Boxing Day Run.