The Bedford Charity Chase
Turvey House
Sunday 28 September 2025
we’re chasing an idea
Where did this all begin…?
Hi, I’m Ken Parsons – a keen runner and local fundraiser, and I will be the first to admit — this community-driven fundraising event is all my idea!
I have participated in and organised a number of fantastic fundraising events for local charities over the years. However, I’ve always dreamed of creating a mass-participation local running event where every penny of the entry fee goes directly to local charities.
The idea came to me after hearing how much charities have to pay to participate in major events. Take the London Marathon, for example—it’s an iconic race and raises incredible amounts for charity. However, charities often have to pay over £400 per place to secure a spot in such events, which, in my view doesn’t fully align with the true ethos of charity fundraising.
Therefore, I decided to organise an event designed to maximise the impact for the beneficiaries of the two charities. In our event, every penny of your £25 entry fee will go directly to support two incredible local charities: Creating Memories and The Road Victims Trust.
BEDFORD CHARITY CHASE
28 SEPTEMBER 2025 | The Bedford Charity Chase is a 5-mile run designed to bring together runners and walkers of all abilities. Whether you’re chasing a personal best, enjoying a relaxed jog, or walking the course, this event welcomes everyone to take part and support two incredible local charities: Creating Memories and The Road Victims Trust.
This isn’t just a run – it’s a community celebration! With the beautiful backdrop of Turvey House, the event will feature onsite stalls showcasing and selling local products, from running gear to artisan cheeses and delicious ice cream. It’s a fantastic opportunity to promote local businesses and discover what our area has to offer.
Expect a morning filled with fun, surprises, and lively entertainment. With music, sports massages, and more, there’s something for everyone. Along the scenic route, you’ll be cheered on by marshalls, residents, and local businesses, all coming together to show off the very best of Bedfordshire and the surrounding area.
What makes The Bedford Charity Chase truly special is that every penny of your entry fee will go directly to the two charities. Nobody involved in organising the event will take any money from it – ensuring your participation has the maximum impact.
Whether you’re in it to win it or simply enjoying the journey, The Bedford Charity Chase offers something for everyone. Bring your family and friends along to support and enjoy the atmosphere. With plenty of space for spectators, it’s the perfect way to celebrate fitness, community spirit, and giving back.
Our goal is simple: to gather 1,000 runners for the inaugural event with the aim of raising at least £25,000, which will be shared equally between these two fantastic charities. It’s a local race, organised by runners, for runners, with the power to make a real difference.
THE CHARITIES
Creating Memories
Creating Memories started with a mission to help children with life-limiting illnesses and has since expanded to include adults. Creating Memories is a Bedford-based charity that works to create treasured memories for people living in Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire and Buckinghamshire.
The Road Victims Trust
The Road Victims Trust was founded 30 years ago by a local Bedford businessman who tragically lost two of his children in a fatal road collision in Bedfordshire. The Trust provides specialist practical and emotional support to individuals who have been affected by the trauma and grief of serious road collisions.
THE ROUTE
