The 42nd Four Villages Half Marathon will take place on Sunday 18th January 2026, through the local parishes of Helsby, Dunham on the Hill, Barrow, Ashton Hayes, Mouldsworth, Manley and Alvanley. The race is organised by Helsby Running Club with the support of local community groups. In 2025 we donated £14,000 to local charities and the voluntary groups who support the race and we will support these organisations again in 2026.
We sincerely thank the local community for their support in putting on this annual event. Here is a map of the road closures and further information you may find useful:
ROAD CLOSURE INFORMATION & MAP PDF
Advanced warning for Local Residents (Please note this is repeated information from the PDF above)
The 42nd EET Four Villages Half Marathon will take place on Sunday 18th January 2026, through the local parishes of Helsby, Dunham on the Hill, Barrow, Ashton Hayes, Mouldsworth, Manley and Alvanley. The race is organised by Helsby Running Club with the support of local community groups. In 2025 we donated £14,000 to local charities and the voluntary groups who support the race and we will support these organisations again in 2026.
We rely on the goodwill of everyone living and working nearby to help us put on a successful race; one which the local community can be proud of. Having this race on our doorstep is also a great way of encouraging more people, young and old, to take part in sport and keep fit and healthy.
At the request of Cheshire West & Chester Council, the route will have full road closures again this year. This is to ensure the safety of runners, spectators, residents and marshals and give the race the best possible chance of going ahead in inclement weather.
Overleaf is a route map with details of closures and times. Roads will be closed in zones to minimise disruption and the timings show the maximum time they will be closed. We will keep roads open for as long as possible, whilst ensuring safety for all.
Full road closures mean there will be no access for vehicles, horses or bikes during the times stated. If you live on the route and need vehicular access in or out of your property during the times stated, we are asking for your co-operation by planning to depart or return outside the times of the road closure. If this is not possible or you have a prior important appointment (e.g. carers visit) please contact us in advance on the number below and we will do our best to accommodate your request. Rest assured, in the event of an emergency, emergency services will have access to anywhere on the route as required. If you require urgent access on the day of the race (e.g. injured animal requiring a vet) please contact us on the number below to request an emergency escort through the road closure:
In advance – 07795 268303 Emergency contact on the day of the race – 07747 023134
We ask for your patience and understanding to help us put on another successful and safe event. We are expecting just under 1700 runners and everything is in place to make this a top race that brings in runners from far and wide and supports the local community and charities. Thank you in advance for your co-operation and we hope to see you out on the course spectating and cheering on the runners on the 18th January.
Geoff Collins
Race Director, 4 Villages Half Marathon
Helsby Running Club
The White Lion Pub and Hornsmill Pub will have access and be open for business as usual
Vehicle access to Tesco will be closed from 10:15 – 11am. However we will endeavour to make this as short a disruption as possible.
