Town Council Sponsors 2026 Hailsham Community Run with £6,000 Contribution

Following the success of previous years, the Town Council is pleased to announce its continued support for the Hailsham Community Run, part-funding the event with a contribution of £6,000. This funding will cover key event costs, including the purchase of medals for participants, rental of toilet facilities, event publicity, licences and associated planning costs.

The fourth Hailsham Community Run will take place on Sunday 17th May 2026 and registration is now open for runners, joggers and walkers of all abilities. Participants are encouraged to register early to secure their place for what is expected to be another highly successful event. The registration link can be accessed here: https://register.enthuse.com/ps/event/HailshamCommunityRun2026/.

The technical operations for the event will once again be managed by Sports Systems Ltd.

Building on the momentum of the 2025 event, which saw over 1,000 participants across a range of routes – including the 10k, 5k, 3k, and inclusive 1-mile options – organisers are aiming for 1,200 entries in 2026. With demand increasing each year, early registration is strongly advised to avoid disappointment.

Mary Laxton, Project Lead, commented: “We are excited to welcome participants back for another unforgettable day of fitness, fun and community spirit. The atmosphere at last year’s event was incredible, with over 2,000 people lining the High Street to cheer on the runners. We are committed to making the 2026 event even more special and we look forward to another successful year.”

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.

Inclusivity remains at the heart of the event, with routes designed to ensure that participants of all ages, abilities and backgrounds can take part. Whether seasoned athletes or first-time participants, families and individuals with additional needs are all encouraged to join in the celebration of community togetherness.

Karen Nicholls, Project Inclusivity Lead, said: “Our mission is to make the event accessible to all. Whether you’re aiming for a personal best, walking the 1-mile with your children or participating with a disability or health condition, you’ll receive support and celebration. The Hailsham Community Run is about more than just running – it’s about coming together as a community.”

Colin Mitchell, Project Co-Organiser, added: “Last year’s event sold out early, leaving many disappointed. To accommodate growing demand, we’ve increased capacity for 2026 to 1,200 runners. However, we expect demand to be even higher this year, so we encourage everyone to register early.”

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

A limited number of sponsorship packages are still available for local businesses wishing to support this popular event and become part of its growing success. For sponsorship enquiries, please contact Mary Laxton on 07723 444209 or email marylaxton70@gmail.com.