Rutland nine-year-old runs for Rainbows.

A Nine-year-old from Rutland has set herself the challenge of completing 12 parkruns in 12 months to raise money for Rainbows.

During 2026, Heather Wolloff will take on at least 30km across the country, aiming to increase her distance from 2.5km to 5km.

Heather, of Belton-in-Rutland, wanted to support us after she learnt about our charity at her school and took on our School Santa Run last year.

Heather said: “I wanted to find a way to help the children who use Rainbows. That’s why I set myself this running challenge. I’m looking forward to trying some new parkrun locations all over the country this year, including some with my cousins up north.”

With one parkrun already in the bag, Heather is supported by her parents, Linzy and Jon, and brother, Henry (13). Linzy said: “This has all been Heather’s own idea and we are so proud of her. She asked if she could do something this year to raise money for Rainbows, so we encouraged her to do something challenging.

“Heather is excited for the challenge and a bit nervous of going to new places, but she is gaining confidence. She wears a Rainbows t-shirt with pride and tells everyone what she is doing.”

Maria Thompson, Rainbows Community Fundraiser in Melton and Rutland, added: “Heather is doing an incredible thing for Rainbows and we’re also really proud of her. Every penny raised from her challenge will go towards supporting babies, children and young people who need us the most whether that is in hospital, at home or in the hospice in Loughborough. Thank you Heather and we wish you all the best for the year. If anyone is inspired by Heather to do their own fundraising, please get in touch at [email protected]”

To support Heather, visit Linzy Wolloff is fundraising for Rainbows Hospice for Children and Young People