Thirty-one half marathons: Harry’s festive challenge for Broomfield Hospital
A 21-year-old from Danbury is lacing up for his very own festive challenge – running a half marathon every single day for a month to raise money for children’s services at Broomfield Hospital.
From 24 November to Christmas Eve, Harry Squires will run 13.1 miles each day around Danbury and Chelmsford, including local parks and the town centre, as part of his mission to raise £1,000 for Mid and South Essex Hospitals Charity.
“I’ve been a keen runner for just over two years now – at a time when I needed it, running gave me something to focus on,” said Harry. “As a child I was cared for by some of the paediatric teams at Broomfield Hospital, so I wanted to give something back and help make Christmas a little brighter for children who are there over Christmas. Right now, I’m really looking forward to starting my daily runs – I can’t wait!”
Harry originally planned to rest this winter after running the length of Luxembourg in one day, but decided he wanted to end the year doing something impactful for his local community.
Clair Dade, Fundraising Coordinator at Mid and South Essex Hospitals Charity, said: “Harry’s dedication is incredible – not only is he pushing his own limits, but he’s also spreading so much joy to children at Broomfield Hospital. We’re so grateful for his support and can’t wait to cheer him on every step of the way.”
Having been treated at Broomfield Hospital for epilepsy when he was younger, Harry says this challenge felt like the perfect way to say thank you and “put a smile on children’s faces around Christmas.”
This isn’t the first time the Danbury runner has pushed his limits for a good cause – earlier this year he ran from Chelmsford to Cardiff in just six days to raise funds for charity.
Despite juggling work shifts that often start early or finish late, Harry is determined to complete all 31 half marathons before Christmas Day.
He’s encouraging local runners, friends, and families to join him for part of a run, cheer him on from the sidelines, or donate to his fundraising page: www.justgiving.com/page/harry-squires-2