MKFM is a community organisation that gets involved with the local population on so many levels. And that includes supporting great charitable events in the city.
There are few places in the UK that can claim a sense of community and togetherness like Milton Keynes has. The city has shown countless times how its people, businesses and charitable organisations come together to become a force for all that is good across so many spectrums.
Milton Keynes is an award-winning city, and that has stemmed from being home to friendly and successful individuals and businesses all trying to help each other. And it’s this kind of goodwill and co-operation that MKFM likes to support and promote.
That’s why the radio station and news centre has pledged its backing to so many brilliant events being planned for the warm and welcoming months of summer.
There’s a wide and varied array of runs, rides, walks, concerts and fun activities being organised for the coming months and MKFM will be there supporting them every step of the way.
Supporting the local community is what drives MKFM on. Its goal is to provide a radio service that is first choice for local people, and to use this audience to provide social gain by promoting and supporting the work of local charities and community groups.
In this way the station can also help local businesses, people, sports teams, groups, clubs and associations.
“In the same way that we support local awards schemes, so we get behind and champion many fun and worthwhile events across our great city,” said Jo Ronan, acting director, MKFM.
“The events we choose deserve our support – and the support of other organisations like us – because they work so hard themselves to make their events happen. We are delighted and honoured to be able to help and encourage them.”
And those sentiments are echoed by some of the great events that MKFM backs.
Andy Hully, Race Director, MK Marathon, said: “MKFM really helps us to raise the profile of our event. The Marathon has been going since 2012 and is the largest community event in MK, but we still need the support of organisations such as MKFM to help us engage with the people here. And it does that so well.”
Keith Emmett III, MK Pride Festival Director, added: “Enormous thanks to MKFM for their outstanding support and partnership with the MK Pride Festival. As a leading local radio station, its strong presence in the MK community has been crucial in spreading messages of inclusion and connection. With its wide reach and strategic marketing, it has helped raise awareness and engage diverse audiences, making a real impact.
“The continuous support through radio coverage and local networking events strengthens the fabric of our community, and we’re grateful to work alongside such an influential media partner.”
The events supported by MKFM this year will include:
- Milton Keynes Marathon Weekend – With the MK Dons’ football stadium as its start and finish, this award-winning marathon weekend takes place during the early May Bank Holiday. With stunning and interesting scenery through MK’s parks and green spaces, thousands of runners sign up for the popular event. There’s a fun Rocket 5K on the Sunday, followed by a Marathon, Half Marathon or Marathon Relay on the BH Monday. There’s even a fun Superhero Race for those who don’t take themselves too seriously.
- Harry’s Rainbow Colour Run – The charity’s flagship event, it takes place at the Wolverton recreation ground on June 7. Originally set up by Harry’s twin sister Jessica as a memorial day to mark Harry’s anniversary, it has become very popular with children, adults and families of all abilities. This great community event will have, as well as the colour run, stalls, refreshments and other activities. The route is on grass which is marked out and marshalled. Participants can run or walk the course with a choice of half-mile or one-mile colour runs, plus a non-colour option.
- Midnight Moo – Lighting up the night for Willen Hospice is the annual Midnight Moo five or ten-mile walk. This year’s event will be from Middleton Hall on June 20, and, with more space, participants can look forward to one of the best-ever Moos! This night event is open to anyone over the age of 14. Dressing up is encouraged, but walkers should make sure they can cover their chosen distance in their outfit – so no cow hooves! The goal is to raise at least £100 each for Willen Hospice.
- Ride High – The charity dedicated to supporting vulnerable and disadvantaged children has announced the launch of Ride MK Cycling Festival. Taking place on June 29 and using MK’s parkland, 200 miles of Redways and scenic canal paths, the Ride MK Cycling Festival will feature four carefully curated routes: 100, 50 and 20 miles long plus a 1.6-mile ‘Ready Set Go’ Route for children. Each participant will receive a medal in recognition of their achievement. The event starts and finishes at Furzton Lake, promising a fun day for the entire family.
- Dragon Boat Race – the 22nd Milton Keynes Dragon Boat Festival takes place on July 19 at Willen Lake. In aid of Brain Tumour Research, up to 48 teams will compete over the 200-metre racecourse, watched by thousands of spectators. As well as the races, a range of entertainment, food stalls and fun activities will help to make it a great day out. Dragon boat racing is the fastest growing water activity in Britain. Up to 10 people paddle each 30-foot boat with a drummer at the front beating time and a helm at the tail steering a straight course. No previous experience is required, just plenty of team spirit.
- MK Pride Festival – Milton Keynes Pride Festival is a not-for-profit Community Interest Company, developed to provide MK with an annual Pride event. It’s there to promote visibility, social cohesion, connection, education, equality, promotion of the LGBTQ+ community in Milton Keynes and surrounding areas. Organised and run by volunteers, it is a life passion, and they appreciate the support they get from the community and local businesses, keeping Milton Keynes Pride Festival a free event. Last year over 16,000 people attended – organisers hope for even more in 2025. Th is year’s Campbell Park-based event is on September 13.
To find out more about MKFM and Meet of MK, visit the website here.
