East Lancashire Hospice 10k Race 2026

Hosted by The Vella Group, Great Harwood

📍 Starting Point: The Vella Group, Great Harwood (BB6 7UF)
📅 Date: Sunday 18th January 2026
⏰ 10k Start Time: 11:00 AM
⏰ 2k Fun Run Start Time: 11:10 AM 
Registration for this race has NOW CLOSED! We only have 10 available places on the day for 10k and 2k and these will be given on a first come first serve basis - regsitraion will open at 9:15 AM! 

If you are taking part, here is some useful information for the day - 

As you arrive, you’ll be greeted by our DJ setting the atmosphere, delicious food and drink vendors, toilets, and our friendly team of marshals and volunteers. This year, local Social Media Influencer Alistair Almond and his Mum, Caroline will also be in attendance, cutting the ribbon and taking part in the 10K race.

What to Wear
As both routes are multi-terrain, we recommend wearing comfortable, moisture-wicking clothing and proper running shoes with good grip (trail or hybrid shoes work best). Avoid cotton as it holds moisture and can cause discomfort. If the weather is cold or wet, consider lightweight layers and a windproof or waterproof jacket. Don’t forget running socks (synthetic or merino wool to prevent blisters) and, if needed, a cap or headband for warmth or sun protection.

Location
The start and finish of the race will take place on Alan Ramsbottom Way (bottom of The Vella Group) with registration and the event village at The Vella Group, Gaskell Court, Alan Ramsbottom Way, Great Harwood, Lancashire, BB6 7UF.

Parking
As you arrive, parking suggestions a short walk away from the venue include Heys Lane (BB6 7UA), Wood Street (BB6 7UD, Balfour Street (BB6 7SZ), Glebe Street/Curate Street Long Stay Car Park (BB6 7DB) and either side of the road closure on Alan Ramsbottom Way. Please adhere to any parking restrictions including avoiding yellow lines.

Tesco’s at Great Harwood have also very kindly offered partial use of their car park from 10am. They state that you will need to go into the store and register your vehicle (as there is a parking restriction of 3 hours by an external company). They also ask if you can please use the spaces down the side of the store away from the main car park.

Registration
If you have already registered your place on to the race, please head to our pre-registration desk & check in from 9:30am -10:45am – for 10k runners this is alphabetical of last name and for 2k runners there is one desk. Our volunteers will then give race numbers to all 10K and 2K runners.

Water
Water will be free of charge and available along the route and end of the race.

Races
The 10K race will set off at 11:00am and the 2K race at 11:10am. Both routes are multi‑terrain, and UK Timers will be at the event to support with official timing (manual timing). Our team will be there to cheer you on!!

Safety
No earphones, headphones, AirPods, bone-conducting or any audio devices are allowed during the race as they may impair awareness of traffic, other runners, or marshals’ safety instructions. Unfortunately, anyone using such devices will be disqualified. You might also like to know that the event is fully marshalled & First Aid is available should anybody require assistance.

Finish
Upon your successful completion of the run, 10K runners may collect your finisher’s medals, 2K runners may collect your goody bag and finisher’s medal - these will be back at registration.

Our food and drinks vendor’s and toilets will be available until 1pm. The race has been categorised in ages and winners from each category will have their running vouchers mailed out to them after the race.

By running you are helping to help keep Hospice services running and providing care to patients and their families. We would once again like to take this opportunity to thank you for supporting your community and making a difference.

We would also like to thank our co-organisers The Vella Group, Carris Consulting & sponsor Universal Cooling.

If you have any further questions, please feel free to get in touch with our Fundraising Team on 01254 965877 or 07506855849.