Belfast’s inaugural Halloween Blood Run to celebrate Ken Reid’s legacy

The late Ken Reid

Belfast is set to host its first-ever Halloween Blood Run on Sunday, 26 October, a vibrant and meaningful event organised by Leukaemia & Lymphoma NI in partnership with the Northern Ireland Blood Transfusion Service (NIBTS).

This unique occasion will honour the legacy of the late Ken Reid, the beloved former UTV Political Editor and passionate patron of the charity, who passed away in November 2024 at the age of 69 following a battle with leukaemia.

The event, taking place along the scenic Stormont Park Run route, aims to raise vital funds for blood cancer research while celebrating Ken Reid’s lifelong commitment to community, journalism, and raising awareness for blood cancer.

Participants can choose between a competitive 5km race or a more leisurely 2.5km family fun run/walk, with the added fun of Halloween-themed costumes encouraged.

A tribute to Ken Reid

Ballymena man Ken Reid was a towering figure in Northern Ireland’s media landscape, known for his incisive political reporting and warm, community-focused spirit. As a dedicated supporter of Leukaemia & Lymphoma NI, his advocacy for blood cancer research touched countless lives.

To commemorate his contributions, the male and female winners of the 5km race will each be awarded the Ken Reid Trophy, a fitting tribute to his enduring impact.

Richard Buchanan, Chair of Leukaemia & Lymphoma NI, spoke passionately about the event’s significance:

“Ken was more than a patron – he was a friend to our charity and a champion for those affected by blood cancer. The Ken Reid Trophy is our way of keeping his legacy alive through an event that’s positive, fun, and lifesaving.”

Buchanan also highlighted the event’s broader mission:

“This Halloween, we’re inviting everyone to join us at Stormont, make memories, and help spread a vital message – don’t let the vampires get your blood, donate it instead. Every donation can save three lives and could be the lifeline for one of the three people diagnosed every day with blood cancer here in Northern Ireland.”

A fun-filled day for a serious cause

The Halloween Blood Run promises a festive atmosphere with something for everyone.

Participants are encouraged to embrace the spooky spirit by donning their best Halloween costumes, with prizes awarded for Best Fancy Dress for both individuals and families.

Beyond the races, attendees can engage in a range of activities, including discovering their blood type with the NIBTS, learning lifesaving CPR skills with the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service, and enjoying live music and children’s face painting.

The event’s theme, “Don’t let the vampires get your blood this Halloween – donate it and save three lives instead,” underscores the critical importance of blood donation.

Karin Jackson, Chief Executive of the NIBTS, emphasised the life-changing impact of the initiative:

“We are very excited to be working in association with Leukaemia & Lymphoma NI for the first ever Halloween Blood Run to raise awareness of blood cancer and blood donation.”

Jackson added:

“Northern Ireland needs 1,200 blood donors every week – that’s roughly 1 every 8 minutes – and many patients rely on donated blood and platelets as part of their treatment journey – including blood cancer. Giving blood or platelets is quick, easy and painless, and every donation helps three people.”

Supporting vital research

All proceeds from the Halloween Blood Run will directly fund groundbreaking blood cancer research at the Centre for Cancer Research in Belfast, offering hope to patients and families across Northern Ireland.

Buchanan noted the local impact:

“Every step taken on the day will raise funds for life-saving research taking place right here in Belfast – research that offers hope to patients and families across our community.”

The event also presents an opportunity for businesses to get involved through a three-tier sponsorship package. Interested corporate partners can contact LLNI’s Fundraising Manager at info@llni.co.uk or call 02890 972928 for more details.

How to get involved

Whether you’re a seasoned runner, a family looking for a fun day out, or simply passionate about supporting a worthy cause, the Halloween Blood Run welcomes all.

Tickets are available now at llni.co.uk/event/halloween-blood-run.

Those inspired to take their support further can sign up to become a blood donor at www.nibts.org, where they can make a direct difference in the fight against blood cancer.

As Belfast prepares to come alive with costumed runners and community spirit, the Halloween Blood Run stands as a powerful tribute to Ken Reid’s legacy and a beacon of hope for those affected by blood cancer.

Join the movement this October and help save lives, one step—or creep—at a time.