Methley GP Practice Hosts Free Poppy Run and Walk

Community event to mark Remembrance Day on 7 November

A free community event inviting veterans, families, and local residents to participate in a Poppy Run and Walk will take place in Methley on Saturday 7 November. The event, organised by Health Care First in partnership with local running clubs and veteran organisations, aims to bring people together in remembrance ahead of Remembrance Day.

Event details and purpose

The Health Care First Community Poppy Run and Walk 2026 will start at 11:00am from Pinfold Surgery in Methley. Up to 300 participants are expected to take part in the 5-kilometre route, which will be fully marshalled and designed to be accessible for all abilities. The route follows local pavements and canal-side paths.

The event is not a race and will not be timed. Participants can choose to run, jog, walk, volunteer, or simply attend to show support. Families, children, community groups, and well-behaved dogs are welcome.

Remembrance activities

• The morning will begin with a short Act of Remembrance, including the sounding of the Last Post.
• This will provide an opportunity for participants and spectators to pause and honour those who have served in the Armed Forces.

Participant benefits and fundraising

• Every participant will receive a commemorative medal, certificate, and goody bag.
• Refreshments will be served after the event.
• Entry is free, with voluntary donations collected on the day to support local Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal activities.

Health Care First’s role and community commitment

Health Care First is a Veteran Friendly NHS GP Partnership, recognised nationally for its commitment to supporting veterans, reservists, and Armed Forces families. The Poppy Run and Walk extends this commitment into the wider community by promoting health, wellbeing, and social inclusion.

The partnership also encourages local businesses, community organisations, cadet units, charities, and volunteers to participate and contribute to the event.

Registration and further information

• Registration for the Poppy Run and Walk, as well as volunteering opportunities, can be arranged by emailing Elaine.Jones34@nhs.net.
• Health Care First is currently accepting new patients across its practices in Castleford, Normanton, Ferrybridge, Byram, Methley, and Airedale.
• Residents can register online at healthcarefirst.co.uk/newpatients or in person at any of the partnership’s sites.

This event represents a community-focused approach to remembrance, aiming to ensure that the service of veterans is recognised by future generations.

Source: Doing Good Leeds, Methley GP practice invites hundreds to free Poppy Run and Walk ahead of Remembrance Day