A 5K that could change lives.
On Sunday 29th June, the people of Ampthill will come together in strength, in remembrance, and in hope as the town hosts the inaugural Ampthill vs Cancer 5K — a groundbreaking community event with one powerful goal: to raise funds and awareness for vital charities providing support for locals affected by cancer.
Cancer will affect one in two people in their lifetime. That staggering truth means it’s not someone else’s problem. It’s ours. Behind every diagnosis is a neighbour, a friend, a teacher, a loved one. And behind every survivor is a story of courage. The Ampthill vs Cancer 5K is the town’s way of honouring those stories.
What makes this event even more powerful is the people behind it. Ampthill vs Cancer has been created by residents of the town who know the reality of cancer firsthand. Some are living with cancer today. Others are survivors. Many have lost parents, partners, or close friends. They’ve each raised money for specific cancer charities before, but this time they wanted to do something different — something collective. Together, they chose to support the charities that support Ampthill and the surrounding areas - it’s about giving back to the services that were there when they needed them most.
Participants of all ages and abilities are invited to run, jog, or walk the 5K route through Ampthill Park. This event is about solidarity, not speed.
Funds raised will directly support three local charities that are changing lives every single day. The Primrose Car Service, part of the Bedford Hospital Charity & Friends, provides free daily transport for Ampthill residents receiving cancer treatment at Addenbrooke’s. Staffed entirely by volunteers, this service saves patients time, money and stress during one of the most challenging periods of their lives — yet it relies completely on donations to cover its £30,000 annual running cost.
Willen Hospice will also benefit. Known for its compassionate and holistic care, Willen supports patients facing terminal illness with dignity, pain management, and emotional care. Despite being a critical part of the local healthcare system, only 12% of its funding comes from the NHS — the rest must come from public support.
Finally, donations will also go to Addenbrooke’s Charitable Trust (ACT), the official charity of Addenbrooke’s Hospital — Ampthill’s regional hub for pioneering cancer treatment, clinical trials, and soon, a state-of-the-art Cancer Research Hospital that will shape the future of diagnosis and care across the UK.
Adding a magical touch to the day, the event will also feature a special Golden Hare Mile for children. This family-friendly race is inspired by the legendary 1980s treasure hunt that captured the imagination of the world and ended right here in Ampthill Park, beneath the shadow of Catherine of Aragon’s Cross. It’s a chance for the next generation to feel the power of community, storytelling, and giving back.
After the race, the park will come alive with live music and a laid-back community picnic — a chance to celebrate, connect, and reflect in one of Bedfordshire’s most beautiful spaces.
Local businesses are stepping up to support and sponsor, names like Spencer & Co Mortgage Specialists, Ampthill Fireplaces, Wards Builders & Developers, Taylor Burke Partnership, RD Designs & Partners, GM Flooring, FOD Architects, JAXI Consulting, The Engine and Tender and Ampthill CrossFit have pledged their support. In addition, generous services have been donated by Bonfire Creative Intelligence, Ink Print Solutions, Liquid Designs, and Synrgistic — proving what’s possible when a community comes together.
Still, more help is needed. More businesses, more volunteers, more runners. Every pound raised will go directly towards care, support, and critical research.
Sunday 29th June. Ampthill Park. £12.50 for the 5K, £5.50 for the Golden Hare Mile. Because every step counts — and every step can save a life. Register now at: Ampthill vs Cancer – Run, Walk, Support Ampthill vs Cancer – Run, Walk, Support
