Suffolk Swords to take part in Ipswich 5K run in aid of Be Lucky Anti-Crime Foundation

A swordfighting and re-enactment group from Suffolk will brave sweltering heat and exhaustion by taking on a 5K run in heavy plate armour.

Suffolk Swords, which trains people from across East Anglia in the art of Middle Ages warfare, will be running the 3.1 mile challenge in gear that can weigh as much as 5 stone (32 kg).

The 'blade runners', as they have called themselves, will take to the streets of Ipswich to raise money for the Be Lucky Anti-Crime Foundation and the installation of bleed boxes in the town.

Twenty-two of these boxes dot the town, and are equipped to deal with trauma from accidents that can lead to heavy bleeding, such as stabbings or car crashes.

Dave Kirkby from Suffolk Swords said the team do a number of events but have always wanted to raise money or awareness for a cause dear to the area.

The team have been in discussion with Ipswich Parkrun in the hopes they can help them plan out their route.

The idea was inspired by one member completing the run while partially garbed in armour.

A date of mid-May has been set, although specific details have yet to be worked out.

This was chosen as it will be before the weather gets too warm, as it can get quite hot under all the gear.

Dave said: “We wanted to get together as a group and do something to give back to the community.

“We hope that at least four-to-five of us will be trying to wear as much armour as possible, while others may be wearing far less.

“We’re not trying to break any records here – and even being able to run in the armour will prove a challenge as it can be restrictive and painful – we just want to take part and help raise funds for a great cause.

“Reception so far has been great, and we’ve raised quite a bit of money in such a short time.”

The Be Lucky Anti-Crime Foundation raises awareness about gang knife crime in the town.

It was started by the Lucky 13 tattoo studio in St Margaret’s Street after the owner’s brother was stabbed.

Each bleed box costs about £550 to install and can only be accessed after dialling 999.

Suffolk Swords wishes to raise enough money for one box, but Dave hopes they could help fund multiple should people choose to donate.

The team set up a GoFundMe, which has already raised over £300 in three days.

If they fall short of the target, or are close to raising the money for a second or even a third box, the team will discuss a course of action, which may include allocating club funds to fill the gap.

Dave added: “We’re confident that we will reach our target and we wanted to thank everyone who has already pledged their support.

“We train people to use swords, so we’re fully aware of the kinds of injuries they can cause and figured it was the perfect charity to support - and the founder agreed.

“As a first charity event, I think it will definitely be something to remember. It's as much about raising money as it is about the endurance required to complete it."

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