Bereaved dad Luke to lead emotional Father’s Day Rainbow Run in Exeter
Hundreds of fun runners will be taking part in Children’s Hospice South West’s (CHSW) colourful Rainbow Run at Escot Park near Ottery St Mary this month.
The popular family-friendly 5k takes place on Father’s Day (June 19) and for one local dad supported by the charity’s Little Bridge House children’s hospice in North Devon, every step around the stunning 5k course will be filled with emotion. 
Luke Compton, whose son Kaleb died seven years ago next month, will be leading runners off from the start line and through colourful bursts of powder paint at a series of special colour stations dotted around the woodland and parkland route.
The bereaved dad, whose ‘world fell apart’ the day 18-month-old Kaleb died in June 2015, said he was ‘proud’ to give something back to the charity that continues to support him through his heart break.
“Little Bridge House was and remains the most incredible place and I promised from that day on I would do anything possible to thank them for everything they did for Kaleb and continue to do for me,” said Luke, 33, from North Tawton.
It will be very special to lead this year’s Rainbow Run, particularly on Father’s Day.
My girl Betsy is also taking part and although I will never be able to look Kaleb in the eyes, watch him grow up or be able to hold him and just be his dad, I know that being able to support Little Bridge House is helping other families access that vital support when they need it.”
Anyone aged five years and over can take part in Rainbow Run and tickets are available priced £20 for adults and £14 for children aged (5 to 15).
CHSW event fundraiser Kate Romo said: “We’re excited to be bringing Rainbow Run to beautiful Escot Park for the first time and are looking forward to seeing families crossing the finish line covered in glorious rainbow colours, and enjoying a fantastic day out together.
“Just pull on a white T-shirt and run or walk through different coloured paint stations; there are no winners or race times, it’s all about having fun and raising money to help provide vital care for local families,” added Kate.
The event village will be open from 11am, with face painters, bouncy castle, stalls and refreshments, as well as plenty of colourful rainbow merchandise. There will be a warm-up at 12.50pm before Luke leads the runners off from the start line at 1pm.
Tickets must be pre-booked in advance and are available to buy here.