Great Midlands Fun Run: 29 people treated by paramedics
A RECORD number of joggers braved scorching sunshine to take part in the Great Midlands Fun Run – but the heat took its toll.
Two people needed hospital treatment and 27 others were given first aid.
A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “A total of 29 people were treated by crews for complaints ranging from dehydration, muscle injuries and heat exhaustion to a runner with a nose bleed and a diabetic whose blood sugar level had dipped too low.
“Crews were called to a 41-year-old woman who had felt unwell whilst running. She was treated at the scene for dehydration before being taken by St John Ambulance to Good Hope Hospital for further assessment and treatment.
“Ambulance crews also responded to a 23-year-old man who had developed chest pains during the run. He was treated by crews before being taken to Good Hope Hospital.”
Event director Tracey Spare said nearly 6,000 runners descended on Sutton town centre, making the race the biggest since its re-launch in 2003.
“The hot weather brought out the spectators so the atmosphere has been fantastic,” said event director Tracey Spare.
With such a high turn-out, organisers are hoping to top last year’s fund-raising figure of £165,000. “Early indications are that it’s done very well,” said Tracey.
Described on the event website as “challenging but fun”, the 8.5-mile route started and finished in Sutton Town Centre, taking in Sutton Park.
Graphic designer David Turner, aged 31, of Erdington, wore a heavy Scooby Doo costume to complete the run.
