Run Barns Green 2024: Honouring a Friend and Supporting Mental Health

On Sunday 29 September, the much-anticipated Run Barns Green 2024 event took place, marking a poignant moment for many involved. 36 Old Blues, staff and current CH students laced up their running shoes to take part in the annual run, which holds deep significance for the Christ’s Hospital community.

In 2019, the tragic passing of Justin Brotherton (PeB, MdB, MdA 87-94) shook his fellow Old Blues. To honour his memory and support the school’s mental health charity, his friends initiated this yearly event. Originally planned for earlier, the run was postponed due to the COVID pandemic, but this year marked the 3rd Barns Green 10k since its inception.

The scenic 10k route led runners up the avenue at Christ’s Hospital, through big side, and across the old steeplechase course—a nostalgic journey for Old Blues.

This year’s run held special meaning, as it coincided with the 30th anniversary of Justin and his classmates leaving Christ’s Hospital. The group set an ambitious goal of recruiting at least 30 Old Blues to participate and raising £10,000 in donations for the school’s mental health initiatives—”10k for 10k.”

The team have currently raised just over half of their target, and you can still support the cause through their JustGiving page: www.JustGiving.com/runningforjustin.

To wrap up the day, runners and supporters gathered at the Bax Castle pub for a well-deserved warm down and celebration. Justin and the entire team extend their heartfelt thanks to everyone who participated, donated, or supported them on the day.