‘Run 31’: One big challenge. One mile a day. Your air ambulance charity
Olympian Sally Gunnell OBE is calling on the people of Kent, Surrey and Sussex to join Run 31, a sponsored challenge to run or walk one mile a day throughout January. By taking part, you’ll help raise vital funds for Air Ambulance Charity Kent Surrey Sussex (KSS), and support their lifesaving work across the region.
During a visit to the charity’s Redhill airbase Sally said: “Run 31 is such a fantastic way to start the new year! It’s brilliant for your fitness and mental wellbeing and every mile helps KSS deliver lifesaving care. Knowing you’re making a real difference makes it even more rewarding.
“After visiting the airbase and meeting the incredible crew, I’ve seen firsthand the amazing work they do. That’s why I’m encouraging as many people as possible to take part in Run 31. It’s a great way to kick off your year while supporting an incredible cause.”
Start your year with something that matters. Walk or run 31 miles, one mile a day in January, and help fund emergency missions that save lives every day. Whether you’re a regular runner, getting active again at the start of the new year, or simply want to do something meaningful this challenge is a reason to get moving in whatever way or pace suits you.
KSS an independent charity, saving lives across Kent, Surrey and Sussex when every second counts. Its helicopters bring the emergency room to the scene, delivering advanced procedures to those who suddenly become injured or critically ill, 24/7. Operating this service costs £57k a day, with most of the charity’s regular income coming from its supporters.
Highly skilled teams of doctors and paramedics from KSS perform lifesaving procedures – like open-heart surgery, blood transfusions, and emergency anaesthetic – right at the scene, giving patients the best chance of survival, but it needs public support to keep flying and saving even more lives.
Run 31 isn’t just about fitness, it’s about community and impact. Past participants have shared their inspiring stories:
- Andy Mayne, top fundraiser in January 2025, raised an incredible £1,856. His daughter Isla is one of the charity’s Young Ambassadors, making his efforts even more special.
- Kate Norton will be taking part for the fifth time in 2026! Last year alone, Kate raised £1,662.
- Young Oscar Lawrence, who first fundraised for us dressed as a Stormtrooper, continues to inspire by taking part in Run 31.
Kate Norton said: “I’ve been taking part in Run 31 to raise money for KSS for a number of years. In 2020, following a very nasty reaction to a wasp sting, KSS was part of the team that saved my life. Like all emergency services, you hope you will never need them but KSS will be there if you do.
“It’s a good way to stay fit in winter. I walk the distance rather than run. Last year I managed about 106 miles.”
Every runner who signs up receives a free t-shirt, and once more than £31 raised a snuggly snood, and £150 a cosy beanie hat.
Lola Inge, Running and Challenge Manager at KSS, said: “Run 31 is a fantastic way to kick off the new year. It’s not just about running — it’s about community, resilience, and making a real difference. Every mile helps us deliver lifesaving care when it’s needed most. Last December alone, we carried out around 240 missions, and we can’t wait to see everyone get involved in 2026.”
Everyone who signs up also gets the opportunity to join the supportive Run 31 Facebook community to share updates, cheer on fellow participants, and stay motivated.
Every mile matters. Every second counts. Sign up today!
Join hundreds of runners this January and make a real difference. To register or learn more, visit aakss.org.uk/run31.