Battersea Park to host ‘Where’s Wally?’ fun run in aid of child literacy

A Sunday fun run which has proved spectacularly eye-catching in the past is due for a revival on March 26 at Battersea Park. 

The ‘Where’s Wally?’ dash proved a hit before the pandemic intervened, with its distinctive splash of red and white – the colours of the famous cartoon character Wally.  

Celebrating its 10th anniversary year, but back for the first time in three years, all runners taking part will be dressed up as Wally for the 10km, 5km, or a 1km challenge for kids.

It was held at Clapham Common from 2016-19 and for one year at Olympic Park before the pandemic forced the last two editions to be shelved.

The aim of the event is to raise around £50k for the National Literacy Trust. It is hoped up to a thousand will take part. 

The race is one for casual runners, families walking together, or serious runners looking for a not-so-serious challenge ahead of the London Marathon.  

It costs £20 to take part (£15 for kids). Once registered, all runners will be able to order their free Wally costume, complete with the iconic glasses and bobble hat. Souvenir medals are also awarded. 

All the money raised will directly support children from economically disadvantaged areas in the UK in their reading, writing, and communication skills. 

Jonathan Douglas, chief executive of the National Literacy Trust, said: “I am looking forward to seeing hundreds of Wallys walking, jogging and running around Battersea Park in all their red and white striped glory in aid of our charity.  

“Every single runner taking part will help our mission to change the life stories of disadvantaged children in the UK. All the money raised from the fun run will go towards the National Literacy Trust’s vital work to help children across the UK who most need literacy support.

“Improving literacy skills leads to success at school, better job opportunities, economic success, better mental wellbeing, and a longer life expectancy.”

To find out more and register for the 2023 ‘Where’s Wally?’ Fun Run, please visit: literacytrust.org.uk/whereswally 

Pictured top: Fun runners at a previous event (Picture: The National Literacy Trust)