Exclusive Royal Parks Run And Richmond Marathon Places With The Poppy Factory

The UK’s leading employment charity for disabled veterans, The Poppy Factory, has exclusive places in two of London’s sold out premier running events this year: Richmond RunFest in September and the Royal Parks Half in October...

Runners will be able to snap up places at Richmond RunFest 10k, half marathon and marathon as well as The Royal Parks half marathon, by running for The Poppy Factory. Richmond RunFest 10k is the only race to take place entirely within Kew Gardens. Family and friends can gain free access to Kew Gardens to cheer on runners, and then enjoy the gardens post-race. Both the Half Marathon and Full Marathon run 2.5 miles within Kew Gardens and all runners will receive a free goody bag from The Poppy Factory.

The Royal Parks Half marathon takes place in central London, taking in the world-famous landmarks in the capital on closed roads, and four of London's stunning Royal Parks - Hyde Park, Green Park, St James's Park and Kensington Gardens. This is the 10th Birthday of the Royal Parks run and The Poppy Factory Runners will also get a free goody bag.

Runners will be raising funds for The Poppy Factory’s life-changing employment support, helping to restore disabled veterans’ financial independence through sustainable and rewarding work.

The Poppy Factory’s Head of Employability, Elisabeth Skeet, ran in Richmond RunFest last year and said: “This is a fabulous half marathon course starting in beautiful Kew Gardens with a long stretch by the river and very well supported by spectators. There is lots of support along the way, including regular whoops of encouragement from The Poppy Factory.

"It’s also a very flat course, so fast, with friendly runners and a great atmosphere from start to finish. All in all a fun and satisfying way to spend a day in beautiful Richmond, knowing the direct positive impact the sponsorship funds make on the ability of veterans with disabilities and health challenges to get into and stay in employment.”

The Poppy Factory is the country’s leading employment charity for veterans with health conditions or impairments. The charity provides bespoke opportunities and ongoing employment support for hundreds of disabled veterans across the country, helping to restore their financial independence through sustainable and rewarding work.

Complex health issues developed during or after Service can make it incredibly tough for veterans to find and sustain civilian work. Financial instability can put strain on families and sometimes lead to homelessness. The Poppy Factory believes that sustainable and rewarding employment can give disabled veterans their independence back. By donating to The Poppy Factory, you are helping to provide a truly life-changing experience.

Everyone that runs for ‘Team Poppy Factory’ will receive a welcome pack (technical running vest/t-shirt, wristband, fundraising info), plus on-going communications and fundraising support.

Key dates are:

The Richmond RunFest 10k is on 16th September (Deadline 25th August). Sign up here

The Richmond RunFest half marathon is on 17th September (Deadline 25th August). Sign up here

The Richmond RunFest full marathon is on 17thSeptember (Deadline 25th August). Sign up here

The Royal Parks half marathon is on 8th October (Deadline 18th August). Sign up here