Desford Striders honoured at Leicestershire Cares Awards

Desford Striders Running Club has been recognised at the Leicestershire Cares Annual Awards following a standout year of fundraising, volunteering, and community involvement in support of the charity.

The Leicestershire based club chose Leicestershire Cares as its Charity of the Year for 2025–26, building a partnership that raised vital funds while giving young people practical opportunities to take part in local community events.

One of the clearest examples of that partnership was the club’s annual Steve Morris 5-Mile Charity Race, held in memory of the club’s founder. Young people supported by Leicestershire Cares played an important role on the day, acting as race marshals, helping with refreshments, encouraging runners, and assisting with event operations. Their involvement provided valuable opportunities to build teamwork, communication, and confidence.

The race was part of a wider programme of fundraising activity throughout the year, including running events, social gatherings, raffles, and community initiatives. Members across the club embraced the cause, helping to raise both funds and awareness of the work Leicestershire Cares delivers across Leicester, Leicestershire, and Rutland.

Desford Striders were praised for going beyond traditional fundraising. By creating meaningful opportunities for young people to develop skills, gain practical experience and connect with the wider community, the club showed how local sports organisations can have an influence far beyond the finish line.

Representatives from both organisations also highlighted the strong sense of community spirit that grew through the collaboration. Volunteers from Leicestershire Cares helped support club events, while Desford Striders members welcomed young people into the heart of race-day activity.

For club members, the recognition is a proud moment and a reflection of the generosity, enthusiasm and community spirit that have long been at the heart of Desford Striders.

The work Desford Striders has done with Leicestershire Cares leaves a legacy and a powerful example of what can be achieved when local organisations work together for the benefit of their community.

We'd also like to extend our congratulations and thanks to our other nominees, AAA Foundation, Coalville Can, and South Leicester Foodbank, who have also been fantastic partners over the past year and beyond.

Could you or your company be next year’s award winners? Contact info@leicestershireshirecares.co.uk