Runners make a splash for annual Bluebell Wood Colour Dash

Thousands took part in this year's Bluebell Wood Colour Dash event. Photo Dean Atkins

Running, walking or wheeling their way around the lake at Rother Valley Country Park, people could opt to have different shades of the rainbow thrown over them when they ran through the five colour stations.

And this year, they also had the chance to frolic through a new foam station.

Among those taking part in the fundraiser for North Anston-based children’s hospice were Jacob White and his family, who have been supported by the charity since 2012.

Jacob’s mum Kerry said: “Bluebell Wood Colour Dash is one of our favourite events of the year.

“We’ve done it for the last couple of years because the atmosphere is just fantastic.

“It’s something the whole family can enjoy, whether you’re in a buggy, wheelchair or on foot.

“We take Jake round in a pushchair and walk the whole way, but it’s so much fun getting messy and covered in colour.

Thousands took part in this year's Bluebell Wood Colour Dash event

“There’s nothing better than doing something fun and raising money for this amazing charity at the same time.

“Jake and his older brother Leo love coming to Bluebell Wood.

“Jake is so happy when he visits and Leo enjoys being part of the sibling group.”

Rachel Hodges, senior events fundraiser at Bluebell Wood, said: “We’d like to say a huge thank you to everyone who took part and all our wonderful volunteers and supporters.

“Our motto at Bluebell Wood is ‘living with love and laughter’ and this weekend was all about that.

“Every pound raised at the Colour Dash helps our families to make special memories together.”

Bluebell Wood cares for children and young adults with life-shortening and life-threatening conditions across South Yorkshire, north Derbyshire, north Nottinghamshire and parts of north Lincolnshire.

The charity is currently supporting around 290 families, both at the hospice and in family homes.

Its support services are wide ranging and bespoke to each family including end of life treatment and care, music therapy, counselling, sibling support groups, home visits and more.

It costs more than £4 million each year to keep the hospice doors open and the charity receives around 10 per cent of its funding from Government sources.

The rest comes from donations and events like the Colour Dash.

To find out how you can help support the hospice, please visit www.bluebellwood.org