This Autumn, the North Wales coast will see not one, but two of the fantastically fun 5k Dark Run events in aid of local children’s hospice charity Hope House and Tŷ Gobaith.

Joining the established RSPB Conwy event will be another hosted at the magnificent National Trust property of Penrhyn Castle, near Bangor.

The Dark Runs are a family-friendly run, walk, push or even dance along beautiful coastline and especially lit-up castle views as darkness falls with all competitors waving large flashing glow sticks and encouraged to wear fancy dress.

Everyone who takes part will get a special bespoke medal and goody bag as well as securing the knowledge that they have helped a very worthy cause.

Launching the two events are families from Conwy and Anglesey counties who have first-hand experience of the valuable work that Hope House and Tŷ Gobaith do – both having a child who benefits from respite stays at the hospices.

Cassi Howell, 14, from Dwyran, Anglesey has a very rare progressive neuro muscular disease Börjeson-Forssman-Lehmann syndrome (BFLS) and needed surgery to straighten her legs to allow her the best chance of walking properly again.

The surgery took place in February 2021 and Cassi has since been supported in her recovery with respite care at Tŷ Gobaith.

Her mother, Alys said: “It’s such a wonderful place.

“Knowing that our child is being cared for by skilled people who want to be there gives us such great peace of mind.

“It allows us to switch off and focus on doing normal things with our son, Tomos.”

The Coxon family whose nine year old son Oliver attends Tŷ Gobaith are supporting the RSPB Conwy event and dad Stewart, said: “Without Tŷ Gobaith we’d be totally lost – we’d have no respite at all.

“Oliver had to have a double hip operation last year and we have no hoists or specialist equipment at home.

“We were able to stay as a family and have the expert care of the staff on hand 24/7.

“They’re amazing, and we’re happy to support this great fundraising event for everything they do for Oliver and us.”

Rhian Cahill, Visitor Experience and Operations Manager for the National Trust, said: “We’re excited to be welcoming the Dark Run to Penrhyn Castle and to be supporting the wonderful work Tŷ Gobaith do.

“Penrhyn Parkrun, who run this route every Saturday are helping us to provide the best possible experience for our Dark Runners.

“As a dark skies reserve, Penrhyn Castle is still a fantastic place to be even after the sun sets and we can’t wait to share this experience with the wider public.”

Conwy event organiser Andy Everley, said: “We’re thrilled to announce the return of our highly anticipated Conwy Dark Run for its second year!

 “On October 28th, we extend a warm invitation for you to participate by running, walking, or jogging in support of seriously ill local children, as we illuminate Conwy Castle and follow 5k RSPB park run route.

 “We encourage you to Join us and hundreds more and become a shining light for children in our local community.”

Penrhyn Castle event organiser Vanessa Marubbi, said: “We are delighted to bring our Dark Run to the magical Penrhyn Castle this year.

“We can’t wait to see your costumes as we light the night skies and come together to raise funds for seriously ill local children.

“A huge thanks to National Trust for hosting us!”

This year Principality Building Society is generously match-funding the sponsorship money raised at each of the four events up to £12,500, meaning the runs are set to raise more money than ever before.

James Harper, Social Impact Manager at Principality Building Society, said: “We’re really proud to be supporting the Hope House Tŷ Gobaith team as they put together these exciting events.

“We know the atmosphere is going to be amazing, and as ever there will be a great family feel to the celebrations.

“The current financial climate means that donations are more important than ever before to maintain the vital services that they provide for the children and families that they support, we are proud to match fund all donations at these events, and can’t wait to get involved.”

Registration is £10 per adult and £5 per child (under 16 years) and are available at www.hopehouse.org.uk/events

See the QR Codes below for full entry details or check out:

https://www.hopehouse.org.uk/Event/penrhyn

https://www.hopehouse.org.uk/Event/conwy

Photos: (1) Come along and join the fun last these revellers at the 2022 events (2) Cassi Howel who attends Tŷ Gobaith helps launch the Penrhyn Castle event