Charity Seeks Sponsors and Fundraisers for Inaugural Running Festival

A Flint-based charity supporting young people living with cancer is appealing for support to help launch a brand-new running festival on the Wirral this spring.

The first Wirral Running Festival will take place on Sunday 31 May 2026 along the Ian Fraser Walk in New Brighton, featuring 5km, 10km and half marathon distances. Organisers hope the event will not only establish a new annual fixture in the local running calendar, but also raise vital funds for Giddo’s Gift, the event’s official charity partner.

Giddo’s Gift supports teenagers and young adults with cancer across North Wales and the North West of England, providing practical and emotional support during and after treatment. The charity offers financial grants, special wishes, family breaks and ongoing help to young people and their families when they need it most.

The charity was founded in memory of Jordan “Giddo” Giddins, from Flint, who was diagnosed with the rare blood disorder HLH at the age of 11 and later with Ewing’s Sarcoma, a form of bone cancer. Despite years of intensive treatment including chemotherapy, surgery and radiotherapy, Jordan sadly died aged 18 in April 2017. His legacy now lives on through the charity established by his family.

Since its formation, Giddo’s Gift has supported thousands of young people affected by cancer, and their families. Its work includes providing emergency bags and goodie boxes on oncology wards, financial support for families under pressure, bereavement support, and free family holidays at “Giddo’s Gaff”, the charity’s caravan retreat in Porthmadog.

As preparations continue for the inaugural festival, the charity is appealing to businesses and organisations to come on board as sponsors, helping to support the event while also backing a cause that directly impacts young people facing cancer.

At the same time, runners of all abilities are being encouraged to sign up and fundraise for Giddo’s Gift, turning their miles into meaningful support. Charity places are available, with participants asked to raise funds to help the charity continue its work.

Mandy Giddins, Jordan’s mum and founder of Giddo’s Gift, said: “Launching the Wirral Running Festival is incredibly special for us. Jord would be so proud to see people coming together to run, fundraise and support young people going through cancer. Whether you’re an experienced runner, taking on your first challenge, or entering as part of a business, school or community group, we’d love you to join Team Giddo and help us make a real difference.”

The Wirral Running Festival will be held on a flat, closed promenade route along the seafront, making it accessible for first-timers as well as seasoned runners. Find out more at: www.giddosgift.com/wirral-running-festival

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