Hailsham Community Run 2026: Sponsorship, Inclusivity and Community Spirit

The fourth annual Hailsham Community Run will take place on Sunday 17th May 2026, and registration is still open for runners, joggers and walkers of all abilities. This year’s event promises to be bigger and more inclusive than ever, thanks to strong support from sponsors, local businesses and the Town Council, helping to make the run accessible to everyone in the community.

Participants are encouraged to register soon to secure their place and take part in one of East Sussex’s fastest-growing community sporting events. Registration is available online at: https://register.enthuse.com/ps/event/HailshamCommunityRun2026/.

Following the success of previous years, the Town Council has once again confirmed its backing of the Community Run, providing a £6,000 contribution to cover essential event costs such as participant medals, Mobiloo facilities, signage and marshalling volunteers’ breakfasts.

Local businesses have also pledged their support by sponsoring individual race distances: Alinker (1-mile race), Diplocks Café & Pizza (3k race), The Royal Indian (5k race) and Hailsham Community Run (10k race). Additional sponsors include Taylor Wimpey, PXL Wave Graphics, Stevens & Carter, Roland Dunn Sales & Lettings, Lightning Fibre, Elite Medical, Colston, The White Hart, The Kings Head, Inner Sole Reflexology and the Hailsham & District Chamber of Commerce.

The event is being organised by Mary Laxton (Project Lead), Colin Mitchell, and Karen Nicholls, working closely with Sports Systems Ltd, who provide technical and operational expertise. Their combined efforts ensure that the run is safe, well-organised and accessible to all participants.

Inclusivity at the heart of the Community Run

The Hailsham Community Run continues to prioritise inclusivity and accessibility, with routes designed for participants of all ages, abilities and backgrounds. Families, first-time runners, seasoned athletes, and individuals with additional needs are warmly welcomed.

Karen Nicholls, Inclusivity Lead, said: “We want everyone to feel welcome at the Community Run. Whether you’re walking the 1-mile with your children, running a personal best or taking part with a disability or health condition, you’ll be fully supported. This event is as much about community as it is about running.”

Project Lead Mary Laxton added: “Inclusivity and accessibility are at the core of everything we do. Our routes are wheelchair-friendly, and we continually review facilities to ensure participants of all abilities can take part fully. Strong sponsorship and support from the Town Council and local businesses make this possible, helping us create a safe, enjoyable and inclusive event for the whole community.”

Colin Mitchell, project co-organiser, said: “The Hailsham Community Run is a fantastic example of what can be achieved when local organisations, businesses and volunteers come together. Each year the event grows in both numbers and spirit, and we’re proud to deliver something that brings the whole community together in such a positive and inclusive way.”

Community involvement and opportunities

Local schools, charities, sports clubs, and community groups are encouraged to enter teams, volunteer or use the event as a fundraising opportunity. Volunteers are essential for marshalling and supporting the event on race day.

Limited sponsorship packages are still available for businesses wanting to be part of the Hailsham Community Run’s continued success. For sponsorship enquiries, please contact Mary Laxton on 07723 444209 or email marylaxton70@gmail.com.

For volunteering enquiries, please also contact Michelle on 07495 760066.