Birmingham Children’s Hospital Charity is putting a call out for volunteers to take on the iconic Simplyhealth Great Birmingham 10k on Saturday 6 May.

Since the first 10k back in 2015, over 1,500 fundraisers have taken part in this popular event on behalf of the charity, raising £180,000 for the 90,000 sick children the hospital treats every day. 

Already confirmed to run as part of #TeamBCH is mum-of-four Amy Redding, 24, whose son Bentley had to undergo several life-saving operations in 2011 after being diagnosed with gastroschisis shortly before his birth. Amy said: 

"When he was born, he was transferred straight to Birmingham Children's Hospital and had two major operations in his first 24 hours. He went through eight operations in total in his first six months.

"The staff at the hospital were amazing. They just made me feel at ease, even though it's the hardest time ever. They look after the whole family. I owe it all to them.”

Bentley will celebrate his seventh birthday two days before the Great Birmingham 10k, and he'll be cheering for his mum alongside his dad Ryan, brother Brinton (aged 5) and sisters Sienna-Rae (2) and Nevaeh-Jayne (8 months).

The course covers Birmingham City Centre and is suitable for all levels of ability, with the option of walking, jogging or running the route, encouraged by live musical entertainment and cheering crowds.

The 10K will be a first for Amy, however she’s determined to do the dedicated staff at Birmingham Children’s Hospital proud, and support the remarkable care they provide. She added:

"I'm currently running three times a week – I'm taking the training seriously because I want to run the full distance without walking some of it. My target is to raise £500 but, however much I raise, I know Birmingham Children’s Hospital Charity will put it to good use."

Miranda Williams, Public Fundraising Manager for Birmingham Children’s Hospital Charity, added:

“Amy and Bentley have been through so much in their time with us, to be fundraising for the hospital on top of all of that is just phenomenal! We’re very lucky to have supporters who go above and beyond for us and Amy really proves that.

"We will be cheering her and all of Team BCH on, on the day and can’t thank them enough for their dedication and fundraising.” 

To join #TeamBCH and help sick children just like Bentley, visit greatrun.org and select 'Birmingham Children’s Hospital Charity' to receive a fundraising pack and running vest.

Those who already have a place for the run, but who would like to run on behalf of Birmingham Children’s Hospital Charity, can complete an online registration form.