On Sunday, 6 April, thousands of runners took to the streets of Southampton for the annual ABP Southampton Marathon, with 50 incredible participants running in support of Mountbatten Hampshire. Together, they raised over £10,000 to help our expert teams continue providing compassionate care to people across Southampton and large parts of Hampshire.

The event, which offered distances ranging from 5K to the full marathon, was a celebration of determination, generosity, and community spirit. Many of those running for Mountbatten Hampshire had deeply personal reasons for taking part, honouring loved ones who had been cared for by Mountbatten either at home or in our hospice building in West End, Southampton.

Photo: Some of the runners from Team Mountbatten assemble before the run.

Helen O’Brien, Mountbatten's Head of Fundraising, reflected on the day:

"We were overwhelmed by the show of affection, determination, and generosity displayed by all the runners and their supporters. It was truly inspiring to see so many people come together to make a difference. Every step they took will help us continue to provide vital care to local people when they need it most."

Among the Mountbatten runners was Rachel Thomson, manager of our Shirley High Street shop, who completed the half marathon in memory of her brother, John Thomson. John, a passionate runner, had inspired Rachel to take up running after he supported her during a family member’s illness by raising funds through his own running efforts. His mantra, inspired by Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar – “bid me run and I will strive for things impossible” – now motivates Rachel in her own challenges.

Photo: Helen (left) with Rachel (right), before the race. 

Rachel completed the 13.1-mile course in a personal best time of 2 hours and 24 minutes, saying, “I loved every sweaty minute of it.” Her efforts, along with those of her fellow Mountbatten runners, will help ensure the charity can continue to provide vital care to those in need.

The Shirley shop team has been cheering Rachel on every step of the way, and her story has inspired many to consider taking on their own challenges for Mountbatten. Helen added:

"If you’re inspired by the incredible efforts of our runners, why not take on an event for Mountbatten this year? Whether it’s Walk the Test Way in September or Walk the Wight in May, every step you take and every pound you raise will help us continue to care for local people in their homes and at our hospice."

Thank you to all the runners, supporters, and donors who made this year’s ABP Southampton Marathon such a success!

Photos below: some of the brilliant runners in fancy dress and with their well-deserved medals!