Join Santa Run in memory of Harry

The family of a Bedford boy who died are calling on people to get into the festive spirit and support Bedford’s 5km Santa Run in his memory.

Harry Russell died at Keech Hospice Care, Bedfordshire’s children’s hospice, in November 2015 when he was just three-years-old. His mum Julie, dad Mark, and sister Ella, from Bedford, are asking everyone to get their Santa suits on this December and support the charity which cared for him.

“Keech Hospice Care’s Santa Run is amazing and our family’s annual tradition. Keech cared for Harry and helped us to make so many memories before he died and they’re still supporting us now. It’s going to be great fun walking, jogging and running along Bedford’s Embankment surrounded by so many ‘Santas’ all wanting to raise awareness and money for such a brilliant charity. We can’t wait to do it,” said Julie.

In his short life, Harry had to cope with both physical and mental disabilities including hearing and vision loss, epilepsy, breathing problems and being fed through a tube.

“Our handsome Harry had the most beautiful soul and smile. He taught us how to make every moment count. Santa Run is the perfect positive event not only to remember Harry, but to raise precious funds and awareness for our local children’s hospice.

“The Embankment has always been a special place for us, as we would often walk Harry along the river in his wheelchair, so we know he will be with us every step of the way on Sunday 3 December.”

Sister Ella, six, said she loves taking part in Keech Hospice Care’s Santa Run to remember her little brother and can’t wait to run alongside hundreds of other Santas this Christmas.

“I love seeing so many friends and family dressed up as Santa and talking about my brother. It helps me to remember him,” said Ella. “It’s really magical and I think everyone in Bedford should take part – it’s fun!”

Liz Searle, Chief Executive Officer, at Keech Hospice Care, said: “It’s going to be wonderful to see hundreds of people all having a fabulous time dressed as Santa running along the Embankment – it’s incredibly special.

“As a charity, we depend on around 70 per cent of our funding to come from the community so please sign up today and get into the Christmas spirit by helping us care for more people with terminal and life-limiting illnesses.”

“Please come and give Santa a run for his money at Keech Hospice Care’s 5km sponsored Santa Run on Sunday 3 December at Bedford Embankment,” said mum Julie.

Kick-start the countdown to Christmas by signing up for Keech Hospice Care’s 5km Santa Run at www.keech.org.uk/santarun. Entry is just £15 for adults and includes a Santa costume to keep, finisher’s medal and gift. Under 16s cost £5 and includes festive headwear, and family entry for two adults and three children is £40.