Over £42,000 Raised For Claire House As Runners Generate £2.1m Across Chester Events

9 March 2026

More than £42,000 has been raised for Claire House Children’s Hospice through charity runners taking part in Active Leisure Events’ 2025 Chester race series, contributing to an overall £2.1 million raised for good causes across the year.

The fundraising total was generated through three major events delivered by Chester-based Active Leisure Events (ALE): the MBNA Chester 10K, Essar Chester Half Marathon, and the MBNA Chester Marathon & Metric Marathon. Thousands of runners chose to run for charity, turning personal sporting challenges into vital funding for organisations across the UK.

Of the £2.1 million raised across the events, Claire House Children’s Hospice secured a staggering £42,000, supported by nearly 250 charity runners and 100 volunteers across the Chester Series.

Debby Lofthouse, Event Fundraiser at Claire House Children’s Hospice, said: “What an incredible Chester Series it’s been! We’re so proud to have been the official charity partner for the MBNA Chester 10K, Essar Chester Half Marathon, and MBNA Chester Marathon & Metric Marathon. With nearly 250 runners, 100 amazing volunteers, and over £42,000 raised, the support has been phenomenal. Every single penny raised helps Claire House to provide vital care and support to seriously ill babies, children, young adults, and their families. A huge thank you to everyone who ran, volunteered, and cheered us on, you’ve truly made a difference!”

The success of the charity fundraising reflects the continued growth and impact of ALE’s flagship events, which attract thousands of runners each year and have become a cornerstone of the UK endurance calendar.

Managing Director of Active Leisure Events, Callum Shields, praised the efforts of those involved:“The fund-raising efforts of the runners in our events is always inspirational. These charity runners are a force of nature. Their dedication and generosity never fails to amaze me and we owe them a big thank you. In 2025 they have managed to raise £2.1million for all manner of causes across the MBNA Chester 10K, Essar Chester Half Marathon and the MBNA Chester Marathon and Metric Marathon.”

Reflecting on the partnership with Claire House, he added: “It has been a privilege to work with the staff, volunteers and supporters of Claire House Children’s Hospice this year. They are fabulous people who do amazing work and it has been a privilege for us to be involved and support them in what they do.”

About Claire House Children’s Hospice

Claire House Children’s Hospice provides specialist care and support to seriously and terminally ill babies, children and young adults, as well as their families. The charity supports families from across the North West of England and North Wales, offering hospice care, respite, end-of-life care, emotional support and bereavement services when they are needed most.