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Town Mayor to Take Part in 2026 Hailsham Community Run in Support of Two Charities

Mayor's Press Releases

Photo of 5K and 10K participants starting their races at the 2024 Hailsham Active Run event 

The Mayor of Hailsham, Cllr Chris Bryant, will be taking part in the Hailsham Community Run – raising funds for his two chosen charities, while supporting one of the town’s flagship community events.

Now in its fourth year, the Hailsham Community Run will take place on Sunday 17th May, following the continued success of previous events. Cllr Bryant will be putting together a team consisting of himself, friends and family to take part in the run.

By taking part in the run, the Mayor will be raising money for two charities with strong local and regional impact: Air Ambulance Charity Kent Surrey Sussex (KSS) and Inspire Sussex, which has clients in the Hailsham area.

>>Make a donation via Cllr Bryant’s Just Giving page.

The Air Ambulance Charity Kent Surrey Sussex provides a vital helicopter emergency medical service, working in association with the South East Coast Ambulance Service. The charity raises more than £15 million each year to fund its lifesaving missions, with aircraft based at Redhill Aerodrome and a forward operating base at Rochester Airport.

During 2024/25, KSS responded to more than 3,100 incidents, averaging nine missions per day at a cost of approximately £57,000 per day. As an independent charity, almost all of its work is funded through public generosity.

The Mayor and Deputy Mayor, Cllr Colin Mitchell, attended the KSS Air Ambulance Charity Civic Leaders Event at Redhill on 21 January, which brought together civic and community leaders from across the South East to strengthen collaboration, improve community resilience and support the charity’s lifesaving work.

The second charity being supported is Inspire Sussex, formerly Eastbourne & District Mencap, which rebranded in 2023. With roots dating back to 1949, Inspire Sussex supports adults with learning disabilities in Eastbourne and surrounding areas, empowering individuals to live independently and take an active role in decisions about their lives. The charity operates three specialised residential homes and uses award-winning technology to meet Care Quality Commission (CQC) standards.

Speaking ahead of the event, Cllr Chris Bryant, said: “The Hailsham Community Run is a fantastic event that brings people together while supporting great causes, and I’m proud to be taking part this year alongside members of my family.”

“Both charities I’m raising money for do incredible work – from providing lifesaving emergency care across our region to supporting adults with learning disabilities to live full and independent lives. I’d encourage residents of all ages and abilities to get involved, whether by running, volunteering or cheering on the day.”

>>Make a donation via Cllr Bryant’s Just Giving page.


Enquiries relating to this media release

Terry Hall, COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER
Hailsham Town Council, Market Street, Hailsham, East Sussex, BN27 2AE
Telephone: 01323 841702 | Email: terry.hall@hailsham-tc.gov.uk