Treetops Hospice has been selected as Charity of the Year for two of Derbyshire’s most popular running events – the Wilne 10k and the Derby 10 Mile. Taking place this September and November, both races sell out every year and have become firm favourites in the region’s running calendar.
Each event raises thousands of pounds for charity, but this year’s choice of Treetops Hospice, based in Risley, holds particular significance for Race Director, Richard Kay.
Richard explained: “As a team made up of people who were born and bred locally, or who now live in the area, we’ve been aware of Treetops and the incredible work they do for many years.
Runners taking on the Wilne 10k in September 2025.
“However, it was a personal experience over the past year that truly brought home the scale and importance of the service Treetops provides.
“Sadly, I lost a close friend in 2025 after a 13-year battle with cancer. During the final months of his life, I heard about the outstanding care and support Treetops provided to him, as well as the ongoing support they continue to give to his wife and daughter.
“Supporting a charity has always been a core part of our events, and with another member of our team also having supported Treetops recently, it felt a natural and meaningful decision to make Treetops our Charity of the Year for both the Wilne 10k and the Derby 10 Mile in 2026.”
Last year, Treetops provided over 34,000 hours of end‑of‑life nursing care to more than 2,000 local patients. With under 18% statutory funding, it relies heavily on community support to keep its services running.
The Wilne 10k was launched in 2011, inspired by years of training around the flat Church Wilne area. The Derby 10 Mile followed in 2016, filling a gap in the local running scene by offering a distance that bridges the step between a 10k and a half-marathon.
Both events were created to welcome runners of all abilities – from those chasing personal bests to those taking part for fun, fitness or community spirit.
Richard added: “We hope that, together, we can raise a substantial amount to help Treetops maintain their tranquil and welcoming facility in Risley, and continue helping so many families during times of need.
“We encourage as many runners as possible to get involved, even if it’s through a small donation at entry. We also hope more people will come to understand the incredible work Treetops does and know where to turn should they ever need such support themselves.”
Claire Mathias, Relationships Manager for Challenge Events at Treetops Hospice, said: “We are absolutely delighted to have been chosen as Charity of the Year for the Wilne 10k and Derby 10 Mile events.
“These two local events bring so much to the community. They give participants and supporters something exciting to look forward to, while promoting health, wellbeing and awareness of charities and services like ours.”
Hundreds of runners are expected to take part in each event. Treetops team members will be present on the day to cheer participants on at drink stations and celebrate their achievements.
To register for either event, visit https://www.wilne.co.uk/ or https://derby10.co.uk/ where you can also find details for discounted multi-event packages for the Carsington 7+, Wilne 10k and Derby 10 Mile races.
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Lead photo: Natalie Godrich, Relationships Manager at Treetops Hospice (left), Claire Mathias, Relationships Manager at Treetops Hospice (middle) and Lee Francis, Wilne 10K / Derby 10 Mile (right)
Registered Charity Number: 519540
About Treetops Hospice
Treetops Hospice is a leading end-of-life care charity in Derbyshire, for adults with life-limiting conditions, people who have been bereaved, and their families.
The charity offers support from the point of diagnosis onwards for patients living with conditions such as cancer, motor neurone disease and heart and respiratory illnesses.
Last year, the Treetops nursing team supported over 2,000 patients, with over 34,000 hours of end-of-life care delivered.
The bereavement counselling team provided more than 5,000 hours of sessions – including over 1,500 for children and young people. The Wellbeing team also offers vital information, guidance, and emotional support to those who need it most.
A donation of £34.50 helps provide a counselling session for a bereaved child. A donation of £108 helps provide nursing care through the night for a patient at the end of life.
Donations are warmly welcomed to help secure the future of the hospice and its services: www.treetopshospice.org.uk/donate
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