Story added: 16th July 2026

Public Sector Challenge Norfolk – an unforgettable day on the North Norfolk Coast

More than £15,000 has been raised for the Community Sports Foundation after 160 participants took to the stunning North Norfolk coastline for the 2026 Public Sector Challenge Norfolk. 

Hosted on behalf of the South Norfolk and Broadland District Council, the event brought together colleagues from across the public sector and beyond, who chose from three challenge distances: 26 miles from Holkham Hall, 12 miles from Cley or 6.5 miles from Weybourne Beach. All routes shared one destination, a spectacular finish line overlooking the sea on Runton Road, Cromer. 

The day began bright and early for those taking on the full marathon distance, with participants gathering in the grounds of the stunning Holkham Hall. After registration, an instructor from Hustle Gym got everyone moving with an energising warm-up before South Norfolk and Broadland District Council’s Managing Director, Trevor Holden, thanked participants for their support and delivered some final words of encouragement.  

With temperatures forecast to rise throughout the day, the marathon walkers were eager to get started and set off slightly ahead of schedule, embarking on an unforgettable journey along the coast.  

The challenge is underway

Throughout the challenge teams of Foundation MyClub volunteers (including a team from Aviva), Up & Running Treatments, and staff from both the Foundation and councils were stationed along the route. Providing encouragement, tending to blisters, managing water stations and the much-needed rest stops this dedicated team kept the participants motivated and hydrated.  

As the miles ticked by and the summer heat intensified, some participants added a cheeky rest stop of their own and made the most of a welcomed sight on the route, an ice cream van, providing a cool sugary boost! 

12-milers join the challenge

At Cley Village Hall, marathon participants were greeted by a fantastic spread of food to refuel, while Paul from Runners Remedy helped keep tired muscles moving with complimentary sports massages. It was also here that participants tackling the 12-mile option began their own challenge along the coast.  

For both groups, one of the day’s toughest tests awaited shortly after leaving Cley – the infamous shingle bank. While the terrain proved challenging, those who conquered it were rewarded at Weybourne Beach with a welcome selection of sweet treats and ice lollies, kindly provided by event sponsors Loads 4 Less. 

6-milers join the challenge

Weybourne also marked the starting point for the final group of participants, who took on the 6.5-mile route into Cromer. 

With clear blue skies overhead and the North Sea sparkling, the challengers continued their journey eastwards, soaking up some of the county’s most breathtaking scenery before making their way towards the finish line.  

Challenge complete

At the finish line in Cromer participants were greeted by cheers, applause and a well-deserved celebration. Despite the miles already covered some even found the energy for a spring finish! Medals were presented by Hope, a participant in the Foundation’s programmes and Look East alumni Stuart White, representing headline sponsor HelpAlert.  

The celebrations continued with a delicious barbecue courtesy of Swash Nosh, accompanied by much-needed refreshments as participants relaxed, shared stories from the day and enjoyed the stunning summers’ evening.  

Our thanks to…

The Foundation would like to thank everyone who helped make the event possible. To South Norfolk and Broadland District Council, Holkham Hall, the National Trust, headline sponsor HelpAlert, Foundation partner sponsor Gasway, supporting event sponsors Watsons, The Solar Panel Cleaning Specialists, Birketts, MMC, Heritage Wills, EEEGR, and Loads 4 Less and additional support from Hustle and Simply Roasted for supplying crisps to keep the legs moving.  

Thank you to everyone who walked, volunteered, sponsored and supported the Public Sector Challenge Norfolk. We can’t wait to do it all again next year.