Can you take on the Hackpen Hill?

Local running group Wroughton Whippetts are back with their fifth Hackpen Hill 10km run, with all proceeds going to Great Western Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust’s charity, Brighter Futures.

This challenging run takes part completely off road, using the tracks and farm fields skirting the historic Ridgeway trail and surrounding areas. 

The tough course can be very muddy, but is well marshalled, with the one-lap course starting and finishing at the event HQ. 

Every penny raised will go towards improving the cancer services at Great Western Hospital, as Brighter Futures work to raise the necessary funds to improve the hospital environment and provide state-of-the-art equipment for all who receive treatment for cancer in Swindon. 

Michelle Leighton, Community and Events Fundraising Manager, said: “This is a great event for anybody looking to get out in the fresh air and take on a challenge. 

“You can run or walk the route, but there will be prizes for the first three men and women to cross the finish line.

“The Hackpen Hill 10km gives people the opportunity to also raise vital funds to keep improving our services here at Great Western Hospital, as we know just how important our cancer services are to local residents and want to make sure our patients always receive the best possible care.”

Paul Bailey, from the Wroughton Whippetts, has helped to organise the event for the past five years. “We are so thrilled to again be supporting Brighter Futures,” he said. 

“We originally set this run up in memory of Gill Hussey, who passed away from breast cancer. Her wish was for Brighter Futures to be supported, and the run has just grown and grown since.

“This event has previously raised considerable amounts of money and we hope this year will be no different. Please, if you haven’t already, come along and join us for some outdoor fun.”

The run is taking place on Sunday 15 September, from 10:00am. Entry costs £15 per person, or £17 if you enter on the day. 

Please visit https://www.entrycentral.com/event/103973 to enter.