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Solstice runners raise £25,000 for Sue Ryder

Tuesday, 23 June 2026 at 15:01

[Photos: John Ashton]

From the rolling hills of Yorkshire to coastal trails in Turkey, runners across the globe marked the longest day of the year by taking part in the Sue Ryder Solstice Saunter - raising over £25,000 for Sue Ryder Manorlands Hospice.

750 people joined the flagship 5 mile event at Bolton Abbey, supported by sponsors Ecology Building Society, while 130 others completed their own virtual routes across the UK and abroad.

Despite soaring temperatures, the event saw impressive performances. Sam Townson was first to cross the finish line, followed by Oscar Fox who was runner up for the second year in a row. Two-thirds of participants were women, with Eliza Taswell-Fryer first and Lottie Senior runner up.

Andrew Wood, Senior Regional Fundraiser at Sue Ryder, said: “It’s been incredible to see the Sue Ryder Solstice Saunter grow into a global show of support for Sue Ryder. Every participant helped us raise money so we can continue to be there when it matters most. A huge thank you to everyone who took part, our fantastic volunteers, generous sponsors, and of course, Race Director David Senior for bringing it all together.”

Find out more about how you can support Sue Ryder here: www.sueryder.org/get-involved

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