More Than £8,000 Raised As Wildheart's First Run Wild 5K Proves Roaring Success

Wildheart Animal Sanctuary has hailed its first-ever Run Wild 5K a huge success after more than 100 runners and walkers took part in the colourful fundraising event.

A total of 113 participants completed the route around Sandown on Sunday, raising more than £8,000 so far to support the Sanctuary's rescue and conservation work.

Embracing the event's 'wild' theme, entrants turned out in a host of imaginative costumes, including a giant lobster, a giraffe and even a flock of seagulls and chips, courtesy of the team from CVS Vets.

The route was brought to life by live entertainment from local favourites FaT Samba, Wight Ukers and The Watch, helping create a festival atmosphere throughout the day.

Before the start, participants were put through a lively warm-up led by Tori from Snap Fitness.

The event was supported by headline sponsor The Price is Wight, sponsor Gurit and dozens of volunteers, marshals and entertainers.

Lorraine White, Head of Fundraising and Events at the Wildheart Animal Sanctuary, said:

"To see a sea of smiling faces crossing the finish line was incredibly special.

"The atmosphere throughout the day was amazing and everyone really embraced the fun spirit of the event.

"We are hugely grateful to everyone who took part, volunteered, entertained, sponsored or supported the event."

Following the success of the inaugural event, the Sanctuary has confirmed Run Wild will return in 2027, with plans to grow it into one of the Isle of Wight's flagship family fundraising events.

People interested in taking part next year can pre-register with the Sanctuary to be the first to hear when entries open and receive a 10% discount on their registration fee.

As an independent charity, the Wildheart Animal Sanctuary needs to raise almost £2 million every year to care for the hundreds of rescued animals at the Sandown attraction and continue its rescue and conservation work.

Events such as Run Wild play an important role in helping to achieve that goal.