Hilly Helmet 2026

Hilly Helmet returns for tenth year and the Rotary Club of Westbury will be supplying some of the marshalls for this event.

The Hilly Helmet Challenge is returning next month for its tenth event, in what could be the final edition of the popular charity run.

Runners will don creative headgear for the unique 4.5-mile charity event at Leighton Recreation Centre on Wednesday 5th August at 7pm.

The event was inspired by Dilton Marsh resident Robin-Mark Schols’ recovery from brain surgery. After an operation left him without part of his skull, he was required to wear a safety helmet wherever he went, including on his regular runs.

First launched as a one-off fundraiser for Brain Tumour Support, the Hilly Helmet Challenge became an annual event. During the Covid lockdown in 2020, participants took part by running in their own neighbourhoods and sharing photos.

Over the past 10 years, the event has raised more than £45,000 for Brain Tumour Support.

“It’s our tenth event this year, after which I’m pausing the event for a year to consider its future,” said Robin-Mark. “The event has won three Runners’ World industry awards over the years, as well as netting me a BBC Make a Difference Award for the fundraising back in 2022.