15,000 runners take over the capital at the Cancer Research UK London Winter Run

1st February 2016

On Sunday 31st January, over 15,000 runners took to the closed streets of the capital to run 10km at the 2016 Cancer Research UK London Winter Run.

The flagship event of the Winter Run Series, which raises money for life-saving research, saw Central London become the backdrop for the UK’s biggest winter running event.

Joining participants on the start line in Trafalgar Square were gold medal winning British long distance runner Jo Pavey, comedian Joel Dommett and Magic Radio presenter Nick Snaith. Alongside them was inspirational amputee Victoria Milligan, who ran with thousands taking part to help beat cancer sooner.

The stunning route included world famous locations such as St Paul’s Cathedral and the Strand with runners finishing by heading south on Whitehall towards Big Ben. After a warm-up provided by experts at Nuffield Health, the official health and wellbeing partner of event organisers Human Race, a huge blast of snow shot into the air to signal the beginning of the run. Winter themed entertainment was provided throughout including a ‘Penguin Party’ and a Giant Snow Zone, which temporarily brought a white blizzard to the capital. Rewards for those who finished included an intricately designed winter medal and a hug from a team of ‘polar bears’ as they crossed the line.

The first runner back on the day was Martin Footman who crossed the line in a hugely impressive 33:36, to the acclaim of the waiting crowds on Whitehall. Christian Guesshow and Chris Whitcombe jointly had the second fastest time (33:44) definitely earning their polar bear hugs. Pearl de Braganca was first lady in a time of 34:06, closely followed by Eve Edwards (35:49) and Emma Macready (36:30). All three ladies came in ahead of four time Olympic and European championship gold medallist Jo Pavey in 4th (36:59), which will be something to tell the grandkids!

Money raised by the London Winter Run will advance research which is helping more men, women and children across the UK survive cancer.

Clive Sanders, head of events at Cancer Research UK, said: “Around 345,000 people are diagnosed with cancer in the UK every year – that is more than 940 people every day*. Cancer Research UK’s work has been at the heart of the progress that has seen survival rates double in the last forty years. We couldn’t have made that progress without the generosity and dedication of our supporters and we’re incredibly grateful to the thousands of runners who took to the chilly streets of London for the Winter Run and raised vital funds to help beat cancer.”

Nick Rusling, CEO of organisers Human Race Events, said: “We would like to pass on our congratulations to everybody who has completed the Cancer Research UK London Winter Run. It has been an absolute pleasure organising this event, but it wouldn’t be possible without the hard work and cooperation from a number of partners. Thank you to everybody who has helped, especially our volunteers who have been amazing.”

The Cancer Research UK Winter Run Series concludes on Sunday 28 February at the Etihad Stadium in Manchester. The Cancer Research UK London Winter Run will return in 2017 and it’s possible to register by visiting www.londonwinterrun.co.uk.