Royal Mail aims to deliver for The Stroke Association

Royal Mail is encouraging families to put their best foot forward this May by taking part in the company’s new 5km or 10km fun runs.

Taking place in Birmingham (10th), Glasgow (17th) and London (24th), this year marks the first time the company has established a series of community-wide runs. This year the money raised will go to Royal Mail’s Charity of the Year, the Stroke Association.

Lily Heinemann, Royal Mail’s head of corporate responsibility and community investment said: “With operations in every local community, we understand the impact that stroke can have. The fun runs have been designed to not only raise much-needed funds but also give families the chance to spend time together, work up a sweat and most importantly, have fun!

“In the next two years, Royal Mail wants to help change the lives of thousands of people affected by stroke across the UK by raising at least £2 million for the Stroke Association.”

In addition to the 5km and 10km runs, a series of fun-filled activities will be taking place at the events such as face painting, sack races and the classic, guess the weight of the parcel - making them the perfect day out for adults, families and children of all ages and abilities who are looking to get active and enjoy the spring sunshine.

Jon Barrick, Chief Executive of the Stroke Association said: “As Royal Mail Group’s Charity of the Year, we’re delighted to have been named the beneficiary of these fantastic Fun Runs.

“In the last 20 years the number of people dying in the UK of stroke has halved while the number of major strokes has decreased by 40 per cent. But there’s still so much more to do. Stroke is still the biggest cause of complex disability. In fact, over half of stroke survivors have a disability and 1 in 3 survivors rely on someone to help them with daily living. It’s still the second biggest cause of death worldwide. But thanks to organisations like Royal Mail Group and individual fundraisers in communities all across the UK, we can change the world for people affected by stroke.

“We hope you will join us in May to take part in a Fun Run, helping to raise money for vital Life after Stroke Grants.”

Entry cost for the 5km is £5 and 10km is £10. Children under 16 and adults over 65 can participate for free. £1 from every entry fee will be donated to the Stroke Association. The money raised will help the Stroke Association provide Life After Stroke grants. These grants fund equipment to give stroke survivors more independence and support as they take their first steps back into the community.

Sign up to take part at http://www.royalmailfunruns.com/.

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