Strong Sponsorship Support Builds Momentum for Fourth Hailsham Community Run

The fourth Hailsham Community Run will take place on Sunday 17th May 2026, with registration now open to runners, joggers and walkers of all abilities. Participants are encouraged to sign up early to secure their place at what is expected to be another highly successful community event, as demand continues to grow year on year.

Registration is available online at: https://register.enthuse.com/ps/event/HailshamCommunityRun2026/.

Following the success of previous years, sponsorship support for the 2026 event has once again been strong. Hailsham Town Council has confirmed its continued backing of the Community Run, helping to fund the event with a contribution of £6,000. This funding will help cover essential event costs, including participant medals, toilet facilities, publicity, licences and associated planning expenses.

A number of local businesses have also pledged their support by sponsoring individual race distances. These include Alinker (1-mile race), Diplocks Café & Pizza (3k race), The Royal Indian (5k race) and Hallmark Glazed Extensions (10k race).

The event is once again being organised by Mary Laxton (project lead), Colin Mitchell and Karen Nicholls, working closely with Sports Systems Ltd, who will provide technical and operational expertise.

Additional sponsors supporting this year’s Community Run include Stevens & Carter, Roland Dunn Sales & Lettings, Lightning Fibre, Elite Medical, Colston, The White Hart (Lower Horsebridge), The Kings Head (Cacklebury), Inner Sole Reflexology and the Hailsham & District Chamber of Commerce.

Building on the momentum of the 2025 event, which attracted more than 1,000 participants across the 10k, 5k, 3k and inclusive 1-mile routes, organisers are aiming for 1,200 entries in 2026. Now recognised as one of the fastest-growing community sporting events in East Sussex, the Hailsham Community Run has become the second-largest public event in the town’s annual calendar.

Speaking about sponsorship, Mary Laxton, Project Lead, said: “We’ve been really encouraged by the level of sponsorship support already secured for this year’s Community Run. The backing from the Town Council and local businesses is crucial in helping us deliver a safe, inclusive and well-organised event. It’s fantastic to see so many organisations wanting to be part of something that brings real benefits to the community.”

Colin Mitchell, Project Co-organiser, added: “Sponsorship has been very strong again this year, which reflects the growing reputation of the Community Run and the pride local businesses have in supporting it. That support allows us to keep improving the event year on year while maintaining its community-focused ethos.”

Inclusivity remains at the heart of the Hailsham Community Run, with routes designed to ensure participants of all ages, abilities and backgrounds can take part. Families, first-time runners, seasoned athletes and individuals with additional needs are all warmly welcomed.

Karen Nicholls, Project Inclusivity Lead, said: “Our aim is to make the event accessible to everyone. Whether you’re aiming for a personal best, walking the 1-mile with your children or taking part with a disability or health condition, you’ll be supported and celebrated. This event is about community as much as it is about running.”

Organisers are also inviting local schools, charities, sports clubs and community groups to get involved by entering teams, volunteering on the day or using the event as a fundraising opportunity.

A limited number of sponsorship packages are still available for local businesses wishing to support the Hailsham Community Run and be part of its continued success. For sponsorship enquiries, please contact Mary Laxton on 07723 444209 or email marylaxton70@gmail.com.

Event organisers are also looking for volunteers to marshal the event. For further details, call Mary on 07723 444209.