Hambledon Hilly returns in honour of co-founder's brother who lives with devastating impact of brain tumour

A charity run is returning next month in honour of its co-founder’s brother who lives with the devastating impact of having a brain tumour for more than 20 years.

Now in its eleventh year, the Hambledon Hilly will take place on September 19 in honour of the brother of co-founder Chris Crowe, who was diagnosed with a low-grade astrocytoma brain tumour at the age of 33 back in 2002.

Over the years, Andrew, who lives near Swindon, has undergone multiple brain surgeries and radiotherapy. He now lives with long-term effects, including right-sided paralysis, meaning he has to rely on a wheelchair, experiences difficulty with communication, and is totally dependent on carers for his personal care.

Chris, who is based in Hambledon, said he wanted to raise money for Brain Tumour Research after watching the “heartbreaking” decline of his brother’s health.

He said: “Watching the decline of my once vibrant brother has been heartbreaking. He used to travel to far-flung destinations armed with his trusty camera, capturing precious experiences. Now his life is so greatly limited – mostly centred around watching sport on TV.

“Although his brain tumour has remained low-grade for nearly 25 years, the impact of repeated brain surgery and radiotherapy means his health is really not good. We desperately need kinder treatments and ultimately a cure for all types of brain tumours. And we hope participants and families at the Hambledon Hilly will help us hit our fundraising stride for Brain Tumour Research.”

Starting and finishing at Hambledon Vineyard, the Hambledon Hilly offers a variety of routes for adults and children to suit ability, ranging from one to 20km.

Runners will get the chance to enjoy the stunning South Downs countryside and plenty of hills giving them the perfect opportunity for participants to push themselves up a gear while supporting a vital cause. The event is designed for the whole family with food, drinks, music, a bar, a coffee van selling cakes, and a bouncy castle, so supporters can make a day of it from start line to finish.

One in three people knows someone affected, and nearly 13,000 people are diagnosed with a primary brain tumour each year. Despite this, research into brain tumours remains critically underfunded, highlighting the urgent need for greater investment and prioritisation.

Letty Greenfield, community development manager for Brain Tumour Research, said: “We are very grateful to Chris and everyone involved with the Hambledon Hilly for supporting our cause. Andrew’s story is a powerful reminder of how unpredictable brain tumours can be and why continued investment in research is so vital. Every pound raised helps bring us closer to better treatments and ultimately a cure – together we can help research pick up the pace.”

For more information about the Hambledon Hilly, click here.