Over 2,000 people took part in the fourth annual 5K Bubble Rush in aid of The Hospice of St Francis last weekend.

Clad in eye-catching costumes, runners from across Bucks and beyond took part in the friendly-family event which is set to raise £80k for the charity. Runners of all abilities took on the course with cannons firing pink, blue, yellow and green foam as they passed various stations.

One young runner, 8-year-old Shhivika Bala from Chesham, loved taking part in the event – according to her mother, Selvi.

““She had so much fun diving through the bubbles, she doesn’t want me to wash her T-shirt! It’s the first time we’ve done it. We saw it in a magazine, we did it for a new challenge and it was just fantastic.

“At 16 degrees, it was the perfect weather to walk or run, there was a great atmosphere – we saw lots of Shhivika’s friends from school, it was well organised and all for a great cause. We were so busy having fun, I didn’t even feel tired afterwards. My daughter was amazed! We’ll definitely be

Emma Hall, from Chesham, ran the 5k for the first time with her partner Dave and daughters Isla and Amber in memory of Dave’s grandad Roy. Roy was cared for by the Hospice 15 years.

“With Dave’s parents cheering from the side lines, the girls were raring to go from the start,” said Emma, “and they were all smiles when they reached each bubble station. Isla’s favourite was the yellow one and Amber’s was the pink one!

“It’s a great family event and a nice way to teach the children to be proud of their achievements, we’re very much looking forward to it and are definitely inspired to do more.”

Kate Grigg, Hospice Head of Events, said: “This year’s event was just fantastic, and the glorious sunshine brought out over 150 more Bubblers who made the most of the opportunity to sign up on the day.

“I’d like to thank Rayden Solicitors - our sponsors, Dacorum Borough Council for the loan of their beautiful park, all our Bubblers, our 50-plus volunteers and everyone who supported the event. The atmosphere was incredible, and it was terrific to see so many people smiling, laughing and having fun in the sun.

“So far the event has raised £56k but there’s still time to set up a fundraising page and keep those donations coming in until 12th June. Every penny raised will help us to help more patients and families across Bucks and Herts to live their precious lives well.”