After hosting a virtual event in 2020, the Dorset Neon Run returned to Poole Park on Saturday May 22 and 275 participants completed the course dressed up in neon outfits with face paint and lights. 

The event raises funds in aid of Diverse Abilities, the only organisation in Dorset to support both children and adults with physical and learning disabilities, and their families. Each year the organisation supports more than 1,000 people. 

Karen Hay, events manager at Diverse Abilities, commented: “What a night! It’s so great to be back and hosting fundraising events out in the real world once again. The atmosphere was absolutely buzzing, you can tell people are keen to get out and about and have a sense of normality in their day to day lives. All the money raised will make a huge difference, especially given the year that has just passed.”

“We would also like to extend our thanks to all at BCP Council for their support throughout the planning of the event to make sure everything could run in a safe and secure manner for everyone involved.”

The event was sponsored by Collective Conditioning, and a collection of businesses from the BNI Stratus chapter including Nettl of Weymouth, Scott Walby LLP, Purple HR, Y-Not Finance, Harbour Equity Release, Alan & Thomas Insurance Group, SinglePoint BookKeeping, Paul Kenny Fitness, Apex CB, Verace, Luisa Keech Virtual Assistant, Parenting Soundly, and Chittak Web Development.

Mark Wilton-Patrick, of Verace Business Consultant and founding member of the Stratus chapter, said: “Stratus was formed with the idea of creating a network of capable, reliable and high quality business owners who could support one another in the local community, and provide a really high level of products and services to their markets, all being accountable to the larger group for their reputation and good-standing. We’re really proud to offer our ongoing support to Diverse Abilities; they do amazing work and make a real difference to people’s lives in Dorset every single day.”

One participant added: “It truly was an amazing event, people were so positive and polite and all the staff, marshals, runners and walkers were simply awesome.”

To find out about future events hosted by Diverse Abilities, visit diverseabilities.org.uk for more details.