Essex & Herts Air Ambulance (EHAAT) is celebrating the huge success of its first-ever Bubble Rush, held on Sunday 17th August at Chelmsford City Racecourse, proudly sponsored by Utilize Plc.
The event brought together around 700 runners and spectators, with the racecourse transformed into a rainbow of colour as participants took on the 2.5km course—many doubling up for a bubbly 5km adventure. Olympic gymnast Max Whitlock was spotted enjoying the fun with family and friends, kindly stopping to take pictures and speak with the charity’s volunteers.
The day began with energetic warm-ups, before participants set off through clouds of brightly coloured foam. The fun continued throughout the day in the vibrant Event Village, where families enjoyed:
- Live music from The Up & Up and Zero 2 Hero
- Whimsy Circus entertainment and a spectacular Bubbleologist
- CPR training with EHAAT’s clinical team
- Rides including trampolines and teacups
- Mini “Nee Naw” emergency vehicle rides for children
- Emergency service vehicle displays
- EHAAT games, merchandise, and catering stalls
- A Utilize Plc tombola stand
- Special appearances from UK Garrison Star Wars cosplayers
One of the biggest highlights was the chance to meet EHAAT’s helicopter and critical care crew, with families able to step inside and learn more about the life-saving service. Many also took part in the CPR Zone, where both children and adults had the chance to learn vital, life-saving skills.
The team at Utilize Plc showed up in full force, not only as sponsors but as active participants too. From their dedicated volunteers who staffed a tombola stall helping to raise further funds, to their enthusiastic runners who tackled the course with energy and joy, it was a fantastic display of teamwork and heart.
A Utilize Plc spokesperson said: “Utilize are proud to sponsor EHAAT’s first-ever Bubble Rush and help bring a day of colour, fun, and community spirit to life. Supporting such a vital cause while seeing so many families and friends come together was truly inspiring. We are honoured to stand alongside Essex & Herts Air Ambulance and look forward to continuing our partnership in future events, bringing people together for both fun and a truly meaningful cause.”
Francesca Gillott, Events Manager at EHAAT, said: “We are absolutely thrilled with the success of our very first Bubble Rush. The atmosphere was incredible, with so many families, friends, and supporters joining us for a day filled with laughter, colour, and bubbles. We’re so grateful to our headline sponsor Utilize Plc, our amazing volunteers, and everyone who took part to raise vital funds for our charity.”
Sponsorship money is still being collected, but the event is already set to raise around £20,000, which will help EHAAT continue to provide its life-saving helicopter emergency medical service across Essex and Hertfordshire.