Raising money for Stand Up For Suffolk

James Thompson and his brother-in-law Alex Parish are lacing up their running shoes for the ultimate challenge: completing the Stour Valley Path 100K. Their motivation? Raising funds for Stand Up for Suffolk, a giving circle managed by Suffolk Community Foundation which has already donated over £40,000 to local voluntary organisations since its creation in 2023.

James and his wife Kate made Suffolk their home in 2017, and soon after, Alex and his wife moved into a house backing directly onto their garden. Both families have watched the annual race pass their doorstep and this year, that curiosity has evolved into commitment.

“Many of the 80 Stand Up for Suffolk members live in the villages along the route, and the projects they support are rooted in these communities—so the run felt very apt.” James said. “We also felt that the big feat justified some fundraising support”

The Giving Circle was co-founded by Tom Probert and Robin Hamilton and some of their close friends with a mission to support grassroots organisations which benefit local communities within Suffolk.

The run begins at the Memorial Hall in Newmarket and concludes at Brantham Leisure Centre, covering a stretch of stunning East Anglian scenery. With 100 kilometres of trail to conquer, James and Alex are in for a physically and mentally demanding test—but their motivation couldn’t be stronger.

Supporters can contribute to their cause via the donation link. Every pound raised will help fuel vital community initiatives across the area. To find out more about Stand Up For Suffolk, email [email protected].

James Thompson and Alex Parish are fundraising for Suffolk Community Foundation