Taurus Events: NHS Blue Wave for Britain’s Ocean City Running Festival

There will once again be a sea of blue across Britain’s Ocean City on Sunday 17 May 2026, as NHS staff, supporters and the wider community come together to form the returning NHS Blue Wave at Britain’s Ocean City Running Festival.

Taking place as part of the Plymouth Half Marathon and Plymouth 10K, the NHS Blue Wave will see hundreds of runners, joggers and walkers wearing blue in solidarity, showing visible support for NHS workers and championing physical and mental health and wellbeing.

Following the success of the initiative in 2025 which saw over 100 participants take part, the NHS Blue Wave will return bigger and stronger in 2026. NHS staff, their families, friends and members of the public are being encouraged to get involved, whether by running, jogging or walking one of the two iconic Plymouth routes.

Participants will also be helping to raise vital funds for Plymouth Hospitals Charity, the official NHS charity for University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust (UHP). Fundraised money will support Derriford Hospital and other satellite sites, improving care and experiences for patients, families and staff.

Sarah Brampton, Chief Finance Officer and Deputy Chief Executive at University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust, welcomed the return of the initiative, saying:

“The NHS Blue Wave is a fantastic way to bring colleagues and supporters together, celebrating both the NHS and the positive impact that movement and community events can have on our wellbeing. It’s inspiring to see so many people coming together in support of our staff and the care we provide.”

Britain’s Ocean City Running Festival will once again see thousands of participants take to the streets of Plymouth, with the course starting and finishing on the iconic Plymouth Hoe. Runners will be cheered on by live music, charity cheering points, boost zones and thousands of spectators lining the route, creating an unforgettable atmosphere across the city.

Those taking part in the NHS Blue Wave will receive training and fundraising support, as well as a discounted race entry fee. A blue event-day T-shirt will also be given as a thank you to everyone who fundraises, helping to create a powerful and unified presence on the course.

Corinne Smith, Head of Plymouth Hospitals Charity, said:

“We’re delighted to see the NHS Blue Wave return for 2026. It’s incredibly moving to witness so many people wearing blue in solidarity with NHS staff. Every pound raised helps us improve the experience of people in hospital, and we’re grateful to everyone who takes part or comes along to cheer.”

Suzi Cumberland, Managing Director of event organisers Taurus Events, added:

“We’re extremely proud to support the NHS Blue Wave once again as part of Britain’s Ocean City Running Festival. Seeing hundreds of people wearing blue across Plymouth is both uplifting and powerful, and we’re excited to welcome everyone back on 17 May 2026.”

For more information about taking part or supporting the NHS Blue Wave, please contact Plymouth Hospitals Charity at phcharityteam@nhs.net.

Further information about the event can be found at www.runplymouth.co.uk .

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