Hundreds turn orange for annual Pumpkin Fest in support of Haven House

Over 500 local supporters turned the forest orange and helped raise £15,000 for Haven House Children’s Hospice on Sunday 28 October by taking part in the Pumpkin Fest.

The day consisted of the brand new Chasing Pumpkins 10k run in the morning and the return of the Pumpkin Plod 2k and 5k walks in the afternoon. The event had a fancy-dress theme of pumpkins with awards given out for best dressed.

Both events started on the grounds of Haven House, Woodford Green and carried on through Epping Forest and round Higham’s Park Lake.

Runners received an official chip time, medal and pumpkin headband. Walkers enjoyed lots of pumpkin-filled activities en route and were given and activity sheet to complete with sweets handed out by volunteer marshals. Every family received a medal and a pumpkin to take home and carve.

Participants also enjoyed refreshments; a tasty barbeque, face painting and a bouncy castle provided additional fun for children.

Lindy Hunt, Head of Community Engagement at Haven House, said: “We were delighted to see so many local families and children attending our Pumpkin Fest which raised an incredible amount for the hospice with further sponsorship still to come in.’’

“We could not have put on the Pumpkin Fest without our volunteers and the support of so many people in our community. It really was such a brilliant event, so well organised and for a great cause.’’ 

If you enjoyed the Pumpkin Fest then come along to our festive themed Winter Wonderland on Saturday 1 December.