ENTRIES FOR 2026 NOW OPEN!!
* Please note, entrants should be minimum age 15 *
Want to give a little extra / can’t make the race but want to donate instead…?
we’re chasing an idea
Where It All Began… and Where We’re Heading Next!
Hi, I’m Ken Parsons – a keen runner, local fundraiser, and the proud founder of The Bedford Charity Chase.
When I first imagined this event, I wanted to create something that truly put the charity back into charity running – a community event where every single penny of the entry fee goes directly to local causes.
In 2025, that dream became a reality. Despite the rain, over 280 entered. Runners and walkers took on the 5-mile challenge through the stunning grounds and surrounding roads of Turvey House, cheered on by the Collaboration Choir, the Bedfordshire Brass Band, and incredible local supporters. Together, we raised an amazing £7,700 for two local charities – Creating Memories and The Road Victims Trust.
Now, we’re doing it all again – and even bigger – on Sunday 27th September 2026.
BEDFORD CHARITY CHASE 2026
27 September 2026 | Turvey House, Bedfordshire
The Bedford Charity Chase is a 5-mile run (or walk) for everyone – from club runners chasing a personal best to those taking their first steps in an organised event. Whatever your pace, this is your race.
This isn’t just a run it’s a celebration of community spirit. With the beautiful backdrop of Turvey House, the event will once again feature local business stalls, delicious refreshments, and entertainment throughout the morning.
Expect live music, sports massage, and that unbeatable community atmosphere that made last year so special. Along the route, our incredible marshals, residents, and local businesses will be back to cheer you on – from the brass band and cheerleaders to villagers offering umbrellas, coffee and support and encouragement in true Bedfordshire style!
What Makes It Special
The Bedford Charity Chase is unique – a professionally licensed and measured 5-mile road race where nobody involved in organising the event takes a penny.
That means 100% of your £25 entry fee goes directly to support our local charities.
This year, we’re aiming to reach even more people, raise even more funds, and keep showing what can happen when a community comes together. In addition to last years charities we would like to welcome Emmaus on board and confirm that the local branch will be one of our family of local charities benefiting from the fundraising.
So whether you’re aiming for the podium or simply want to be part of something positive and local we’d love you to join us. Bring your friends and family to cheer, enjoy the stalls, and soak up the atmosphere.
Save the date – Sunday 27th September 2026 – and be part of the story.
THE CHARITIES
Creating Memories
Creating Memories started with a mission to help children with life-limiting illnesses and has since expanded to include adults. Creating Memories is a Bedford-based charity that works to create treasured memories for people living in Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire and Buckinghamshire.
The Road Victims Trust
The Road Victims Trust was founded 30 years ago by a local Bedford businessman who tragically lost two of his children in a fatal road collision in Bedfordshire. The Trust provides specialist practical and emotional support to individuals who have been affected by the trauma and grief of serious road collisions.
Emmaus Village Carlton
Based in Bedfordshire, Emmaus Village Carlton provides a home, work, and community for people who have experienced homelessness. Through their café, shops, and workshops, companions rebuild their confidence and independence – helping others while transforming their own lives.
THE ROUTE
The Route
The 5-mile route starts and finishes in the Wild Camping Field on the Turvey House Estate.
Runners start at 9:00AM and head out onto Carlton Road, through Carlton High Street, down The Moor, and loop back via Bridgend, The Causeway, and Turvey Road – before returning to the Estate for a warm welcome at the finish line.
It’s scenic, friendly, fully marshalled, and UKA licensed – everything a great local run should be.
💳 PAY £25.50 ENTRY WITH DEBIT/CREDIT CARD
Every penny of your £25 entry goes directly to the two charities – The 50 pence covers the cost of the card payment. Last year a lot of people didn`t opt to pay the card fee and to ensure the full £25 went to the two charities Ken Parsons covered the cost of this. But with entries expected to double this in 2026 last year’s £300 would be too much to cover. Hence we have opted to request payment.
Join the Family
In just one year, we’ve built something more than a race – we’ve created a Bedford Charity Chase Family.
Come and be part of it on Sunday 27th September 2026– 9:00AM
📱 Follow us for updates, stories, and training tips: @thebedfordcharitychase