The Helmsley 10K - built on stories, volunteers and community spirit

The Helmsley Easter Sunday Multi-Terrain 10K has become one of North Yorkshire’s most anticipated spring races, attracting club runners, first-timers and visitors from across the country. Licenced through RunEvents, the home for all licensed road and multi terrain events in England, the event is a standout example of how high standards, strong community engagement and the right support can help a local race thrive.

We spoke with Race Director, Anna Jones, who has been at the heart of the event’s recent success, guiding it through change, growth and a return stronger than ever. With 16 marathons, six London Marathons and countless road and off-road races behind her, Anna understands the needs of runners of every level. A club runner herself at Easingwold Running Club, she values the inclusive, community-driven nature of the sport – something that has become a defining feature of the Helmsley 10K.

“I’ve been running since I was 10 and did my first road race, Glastonbury Tor 5-mile race, at aged 11 back when there weren’t any minimum ages. I’ve enjoyed running and triathlon ever since!”

Founded in 2011 as a fundraiser for Helmsley Sports Club, the Helmsley 10K has grown from 259 runners into a sell‑out event, attracting 418 entries in 2026. After returning from a pandemic pause in 2022, the friendly yet challenging race has become a firm favourite.

Overcoming challenges

The journey hasn’t been without obstacles for Helmsley 10K. A late venue change ahead of the 2025 event forced Anna to rethink the race’s future and it became a turning point.

“I had not planned to organise the race, but people were asking about it, so I decided to find a new venue!”

By bringing together Helmsley Outdoor Pool and the Northallerton branch of Samaritans as race beneficiaries, securing sponsorship from local business, and accessing grant funding, the 2026 event raised £12,000, with £7,000 split between two charities after costs. The experience highlighted the importance of structure, guidance and reassurance which was strengthened by the support from RunEvents.

Why support from England Athletics and RunEvents matters

For Helmsley 10K licensing the event through England Athletics was a clear choice.

“Being a licensed event brings credibility. Club runners want the assurance of a certain standard - quality, safety and official recognition.”

As a licensed race, results are published on Power of 10, clubs can confidently include the event in championship calendars, and runners trust that nationally recognised standards are being met. “Club runners know their results will be recorded and their hard work recognised,” says Anna, recognition that has helped the Helmsley 10K maintain its strong reputation.

From an organiser’s perspective, RunEvents support has been central to delivering a safe, high‑quality event. “RunEvents offers so much support – from having someone at the end of the phone, to the resources on the website,” Anna says. She highlights the Race Director education, on‑the‑day support from a Race Adjudicator, guidance on best practice and safety, increased visibility through the RunEvents website, and the reassurance provided by public liability insurance. Together, these elements give organisers confidence and runners complete peace of mind.

A race built on stories, volunteers and community spirit

The Helmsley 10K is remembered not only for its route, but for the stories and connections it inspires. One such story is that of Martin Lucass, who first discovered the race while on holiday, entered on the day and won. Since then, he has travelled from Levenshulme every year, often alongside his partner, and is now even preparing to run a marathon with a long-time rival he has competed against over the years. Another regular, Martin Godfrey, takes on the course carrying a 30-pound backpack, describing the event as a tradition well worth a 200-mile journey. He now shares the experience with his daughter, who is set to take part as well. As Anna puts it, “It’s the atmosphere, the support and the welcome from the community that brings people back.”

That welcoming reputation is echoed throughout runner feedback, with marshals and volunteers consistently singled out for praise. “We’ve been recognised as one of the friendliest races around – and that’s down to the volunteers and the Helmsley community,” Anna adds. From cheers in driving hailstones to encouragement for runners at the back of the field, the event is defined by an inclusive, supportive and unmistakably warm atmosphere.

“Seeing the volunteers support everyone so willingly, the local community cheering runners on, and knowing we’ve raised thousands for charity - that makes it all worthwhile.”

Looking to the future

With the 2026 event sold out, Anna has plans for the future of Helmsley 10K: “I’d love to grow the race closer to 500 runners, return to its home at Helmsley Sports Club, and raise even more money for deserving charities.”

And as both competitor and organiser, she sees clear value in England Athletics licensed events. “I always have confidence in what to expect when it’s a RunEvents supported race.”

Looking to license an event or find a licensed event new you? Check out the RunEvents website for more information!