Hundreds run in Macmillan Cancer Support Summer Solstice Runway Race

Hundreds run on Luton Airport's runway for Macmillan Cancer Support
Hundreds run on Luton Airport's runway for Macmillan Cancer Support

Two hundred runners have taken part in a special race along the runway at London Luton Airport (LTN/EGGW) today to mark the Summer Solstice and raise money for Macmillan Cancer Support.

The race took place between 04:30 and 05:30 when the runway was closed and saw participants run the full length of the runway and back again. A total distance of 2.6 miles.

Hundreds run on Luton Airport's runway for Macmillan Cancer Support

Neil Thompson London Luton Airport’s Operations Director, who also took part in the race said: “This is our third’ and biggest runway race so far and what better way to mark the summer solstice, than seeing the sunrise over the airport. The atmosphere was amazing and it was great to see so many airport staff and local runners enjoying this unique event while raising money to support the excellent work of Macmillan Cancer Support in our local area.”

Runners came from all over the region to take part in the summer solstice run, including members of the Redway Runners from Milton Keynes, Stevenage Striders and Dunstable Road Runners and raised £4,000 for Macmillan Cancer Support which is London Luton Airports charity partner for 2018/2019.

Hundreds run on Luton Airport's runway for Macmillan Cancer Support

Macmillan’s Executive Director of Cancer Support Operations John Pearson also joined the runners. He said: “Events like this are vital for raising our profile as a local charity and supporting the work we do. The money raised from our partnership with London Luton Airport will go towards our Bedfordshire Macmillan Grants programme which will help reduce the financial impact of a cancer diagnosis and allow people with the disease to live life as fully as they can. We are so grateful for the hard work and dedication of the team at LLA for putting on such a unique fundraiser” 

Watch the race

About Nick Harding 2043 Articles
Nick is the senior reporter and editor at UK Aviation News as well as working freelance elsewhere. He has his finger firmly on the pulse on Aviation, not only in the UK but worldwide. Nick has been asked to speak in a professional capacity on LBC, Heart and other broadcast networks.