The BUPA Great Manchester Run team

Sunday 20 May saw Freedom from Torture's North West centre have its second ever sponsored event. A total of 21 local supporters took part in the BUPA Great Manchester Run - the largest 10k in Britain. Fundraiser Alice Nicolay supported the team and was there on the day to cheer on runners.

The day itself was dry, warm, and there was a brilliant atmosphere across the streets of Manchester, which saw over 40,000 runners take part. A few of us managed to meet up pre-race; nerves were high but so was the feeling of excited anticipation. A good warm up was needed first!

Just after 12 Russell Watson sang 'You Lift Me Up' as our Green Wave runners set off. Half an hour later, the Pink Wave were off! All our runners completed the run, and in very respectable times and most of us managed to locate each other at Manchester's Rain Bar for a few celebratory pints.

North West staff, volunteers, interpreters - as well as Freedom from Torture supporters - took part in the event. Each individual's effort is greatly appreciated! Having a team of 21 runners for the first time we have been participated in the event has been a great encouragement, and our supporters have so far raised over £2,000 between them, but the majority of income is yet to come!

I found the Bupa 10K really inspiring with thousands of others running around me. Running for Freedom from Torture encouraged me to work harder towards the finish line - it's a worthwhile cause and I had seen all the good work that everyone does there. The end of the run was the best, knowing that I had achieved my personal best and had made all the supporters who sponsored me proud. Everyone should have a go at the Bupa 10k or another charity event. Freedom from Torture is a great cause and it's also a really good experience for you and your friends on the day! Drew, Bupa 10k runner

It was a great event and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Your support running up to today was very helpful. James, Bupa 10K runner

The run went well. Both Heather and myself felt that we had done as well as we could. Pat, Bupa 10k runner

'Sporty types look away now': Read Helen Nickols' blog on the Bupa Great Manchester Run (10K).

Like this pic? See the whole Facebook album.

If you'd like to take part in a sponsored event in the North West, get in touch with Alice at ANicolay@freedomfromtorture.org