John Tugman and Deborah Skillicorn will be taking part in the 2010 Bupa Great South Run on Sunday, October 24. in Portsmouth.

They are running to raise money for Greenfingers, a charity which exists to create magical gardens for children's hospices throughout the UK. 

John said: “I decided to take part in this year’s Bupa Great South Run along with Deborah Skillicorn, who is Director of Marketing and Fundraising at Greenfingers, to raise awareness and much needed funds for our planned gardens in 2011.

I am really looking forward to taking part in the run and together we are trying to raise £3,000 for Greenfingers.”

Deborah said: “Ive never run more than 5k before so this is a real personal challenge for me and I will be thrilled to finish!  Im looking forward to running with John who has been a committed volunteer for Greenfingers for nine years."

Greenfingers is currently working on the 31st hospice garden which is a great achievment.   These very special gardens give so much to the children who are life limited in hospices, and their families.    The gardens enable children to play safely with their siblings, or rest peacefully whilst watching the birds and enjoying the tranquility of nature. 

The children often enjoy planting herbs and experiencing the therapeutic benefits of the sensory elements in the gardens, whilst tranquil aspects of the gardens allow parents and staff, much needed time for reflection and calm away from the bedside.   All Greenfingers gardens are special, all of them are different, and all of them are appreciated and valued by the many thousands of families who spend time in them every year. 

£5 will buy a lavender plant

£25 will buy a tree

£250 will create a bird watching area

£300 will buy a bench

£500 will buy giant toys

£500 will create a pathway for wheelchairs

£1000 will buy a gazing ball

£8000 will buy a wheelchair adapted swing

£10,000 will buy a wheelchair adapted roundabout or a wheelchair adapted treehouse

 

Greenfingers was launched in November 1998 by garden writer and broadcaster, Richard Jackson and has been supported by many growers, retailers, manufacturers and celebrities from the horticulture industry.  There are many children's hospices currently waiting for our help. 

Thank you for your support in helping to improve the lives of children in hospices.