Norfolk-based park runners Michael Harper and Amanda Thomson are putting themselves to the test by committing to running 5Km around all of Haven’s 40 UK coastal holiday parks between March and October, in order to raise vital funds and awareness for Mental Health UK following the tragic loss of Michael’s brother late 2017. 

The pair only took up running last November as part of a community running group called the Fox Trotters in Garboldisham, and now take part in regular ParkRuns in Norfolk. They also regularly visit Haven holiday parks because Michael and Amanda’s company, Avani Solutions, supplies 23 of Haven’s parks with draft beer quality services. 

Determined to find a way to fundraise for the charity that is so close to his heart, Michael and Amanda came up with the idea to continue their running while away for work, and so the Haven 5km ParkRun challenge began. They’ve even had their own t-shirts created to wear throughout their journey.

As one in four people are affected by mental health problems in the UK, the Avani pair wanted to raise awareness by running in areas with a large number of employees and a large footfall of guests. As Haven has 2.6 million guests per year, they knew that whilst at the parks, they would likely be reaching people who are struggling themselves. 

Commenting on how it’s going so far. Michael said: “we’re discovering just how hilly some of our UK coastline is! The Haven teams have been really supportive and I’m hoping we can persuade a few people to join us on our runs. Everyone has their reasons for running and while mine is a way to remember my brother it has also become an incredible way to connect with people - and to get fit, of course.”

Michael and Amanda’s aim is to involve as many people as possible and have Haven holidaymakers, holiday home owners and team members join them on their runs around the sites to spread the message about the positive impact exercise can have on mental health. 

Once they’ve completed the challenge by October, they want to build a legacy so that Haven 5km ParkRuns continue year after year with all the physical and mental benefits that exercise brings. 

So far, the duo at Avani Solutions have completed their 5km run at 23 parks. 

Thank you to everyone who has donated so far and we are looking forward to the final run at Caister On Sea on the 12th October. 

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