ANGELS 2025: From Brum to Home — A Journey of Heart, Community, and Grit

By Justin Kirkham – Chair, Overseal Running Club

On Saturday 10th May 2025, Overseal Running Club took on its biggest challenge yet — Angels 2025: The Run from Brum. Starting from the doors of Birmingham Children’s Hospital, 36 miles away, our runners made their way home to Overseal in an incredible show of endurance, community spirit, and support for two incredible causes: Birmingham Children’s Hospital Charity and The Royal Orthopaedic Charity.

This run was deeply personal. It was inspired by our very own Bethany — a brave young girl from the village facing complex spinal surgery with courage and resilience. Her story lit a fire in our club to give back to the hospitals caring for her. That purpose fuelled every mile.

While a number of our members completed the full 36.3-mile ultra marathon, others joined at key milestone points: marathon (26.2 miles), half marathon (13.1 miles), 10 miles, 10K, and the final 5K from Sarah’s Wood — a stretch that saw an incredible turnout from our wider community. Whether running or walking, everyone’s contribution mattered.

From the 7am start at Birmingham New Street Sports Direct, we were supported by a brilliant team of volunteers managing vehicles, hydration, safety, and morale. Every checkpoint had cheers, refills, snacks, and encouragement. Support cyclists, first aid teams, and logistical vehicles moved seamlessly to keep us all safe and on course.

And then — the finish. We returned home to the Robin Hood Pub, where we were greeted with cheers, music, medals, a roaring raffle, and well-earned refreshments. Months of planning came to life in one incredible day of celebration and togetherness.

Thanks to donations, sponsorships, and our amazing raffle supported by generous local businesses, we’ve now raised a phenomenal £7,500 — with more still coming in.

I’d like to thank our organising committee, support crews, every runner and walker, and everyone who donated or cheered us along the way. This was more than a run — it was a powerful reminder of what we can achieve together.

Angels 2025 is now a proud chapter in Overseal Running Club’s story — and yes, we’re already dreaming up Angels 2026.

Until then, remember:💚 Run hard when it’s hard to run. 💚