Community RunFest Blog

Community RunFest Rayleigh didn't begin as an idea for another running event. It began with a simple ambition – to create something that would bring people together and inspire healthier, happier and more connected communities. Presented by Omnia Community, Community RunFest has been built on years of experience delivering PE in schools, after-school clubs, holiday programmes and community initiatives that encourage people of all ages to become more active. The question was s

B MINDFUL is the official Wellbeing Partner of Community RunFest Rayleigh and works alongside Omnia Community to champion positive physical and mental wellbeing. Together, we recognise that an active body and a healthy mind go hand in hand, creating opportunities for people of all ages to improve their wellbeing, build confidence and strengthen community connections. The B MINDFUL Wellbeing Space brings together an inspiring range of local charities, organisations and communi

Performance coach Stefano Russo shares his passion for running, wellbeing and why Community RunFest is about so much more than race day. For Stefano Russo, movement has always been part of life. From representing his county in swimming and playing football from a young age, to now helping professional athletes and everyday individuals reach their full potential, Stefano believes that health, fitness and mindset go hand in hand. As an online performance coach at SR Elite Perfo

The Community Festival at Community RunFest Rayleigh is all about bringing people together, celebrating local talent and creating memorable experiences for everyone to enjoy. One of the groups helping create that festival atmosphere is Harmonise Choir, an Essex-based community choir led by Steve Morgan. Since beginning their journey in January 2023, Harmonise Choir has grown into a thriving community of more than 100 members who meet across Rayleigh, Southend and Ashingdon to

Confidence, creativity and community are at the heart of everything Mushroom Theatre Company does. Led by Director Penni Bubb, the Rayleigh-based performing arts school has spent years helping children, young people and adults discover their potential through dance, drama and singing. By creating a welcoming and inclusive environment, Mushroom Theatre Company has become a place where people can build confidence, develop new skills and form lasting friendships. At the heart of

As Hullbridge Sports EJA Under 14s prepare to step up into the Eastern Junior Alliance League, the squad is embracing every opportunity to improve both on and off the pitch. Made up of ambitious young players from across Essex, the team is taking part in Community RunFest to build fitness, resilience and togetherness ahead of an exciting new season. Tell us more about the team. This team is made up of half our youth football team that will competing in the Eastern Junior Al

Singer-songwriter, community champion and the headline act closing the Community Festival stage. We're delighted to welcome Finn Sexton as the headline performer at the Community Festival during Community RunFest Rayleigh. A talented singer-songwriter from South Fambridge, Finn has been performing from a young age, building a reputation through busking, touring the UK as a solo artist and fronting indie band Monumental. Alongside his music career, Finn is passionate about sup

Building stronger connections through technology, wellbeing and community. At Community RunFest Rayleigh, we're proud to work alongside organisations that share our belief in the power of community. Spiderweb Systems has been a trusted technology partner to Omnia for over 10 years, helping us stay connected, secure and supported as we've continued to grow. We're also delighted to have them on board as the official IT Partner for Community RunFest Rayleigh, helping support an

Community RunFest is all about helping people live healthier, more active and connected lives - values that closely align with those at Laser Sight UK. We spoke with Lisa Conti, Operations Manager at Laser Sight UK, about the business, the link between physical wellbeing and long-term eye health, and why they are proud to support an event that encourages people of all ages and abilities to get moving. Tell us about your business Laser Sight UK: Vision for the Finish Line Lase

Creating spaces where people feel welcome, connected and supported is at the heart of both Sanctuary Play Café and Community RunFest Rayleigh. Founded by local parents Ben and his family, Sanctuary Play Café was created to give families a place to play, relax and spend quality time together. We recently caught up with Ben Higgins, Owner and Founder of Sanctuary Play Café, to discuss community, wellbeing and why creating opportunities for people to come together is so importan

Taking the first step can often be the hardest part of any fitness journey. That's exactly why Ellie Newton created First Steps Run Club - a free, beginner-friendly community run club designed to help people build confidence, improve their wellbeing and discover the benefits of movement in a supportive environment. We caught up with Ellie to learn more about the club, her passion for helping people become the best version of themselves, and why she believes community events l

As the official Property Services Partner of Community RunFest Rayleigh, Arkasian Property Management is helping support an event that brings people, businesses and communities together. We caught up with Abbie Glasscock from Arkasian to learn more about the business, why fitness and wellbeing matter to their team, and why they believe Community RunFest is such a positive event for Rayleigh and the wider community. Tell us about your business Established in 2007, we are a sma