Supporting Good Causes: The 2026 Brett Lydd Marathon

Sunshine and determination set the scene for this year’s Brett Lydd Half Marathon and 20-mile race, as more than 775 runners took to the scenic lanes of Lydd and Romney Marsh to raise funds for local community causes.

Now in its 16th year, the annual event - organised by Nice Work and sponsored by Brett - continues to bring together runners of all abilities, from seasoned athletes chasing personal bests to first-time participants aiming to cross the finish line.

Brett has been supporting the Nice Work organised
marathon since 2012.

This year’s races saw proceeds go towards supporting the Lydd Town Mayor’s Fund, an initiative that champions two local charities each year to help make a meaningful difference within the community. In 2026, the fund will support Pilgrims Hospices, an organisation which helps people facing life-limiting conditions, and The Army Benevolent Fund, a national charity that provides life time support to soldiers, veterans, and their families.

This year the proceeds will go towards Pilgrims Hospices
and the Army Benevolent Fund

Phil Coupland, Managing Director at Brett Aggregates, joined the Mayor of Lydd to see off the runners as they started their journey, and congratulate podium finishers and participants as they crossed the line.

Phil commented: “It’s clear that runners from the local area and further afield look forward to this event as a key date in their sporting calendar, and for many a crucial point in their London Marathon training plan.

“As a long-standing member of the Lydd community, Brett is proud to play its part in welcoming participants and supporting Nice Work in their ongoing efforts to raise funds for important charitable causes.”

Phil Coupland with Bob Jones, the
Mayor of Lydd

Among the mass of runners were several familiar faces from Brett who put their abilities to the test on the course. Chloe Yeo, Personal Assistant at Brett Group, beat her previous year’s time by 12 minutes to finish in 1:55:08, while Samantha Follington, Group Head of People, completed the half marathon in an impressive 1:39:59. Rebecca Denny, Field Sales Representative at Brett Aggregates, who had been preparing for the London Marathon, achieved a time of 04:29:34 in the 20 mile race.

Reflecting on the event, Chloe said: “There was a great atmosphere on the day – the weather was ideal for personal bests, it was great to see so many people turn up to take part and support the event.”

Chloe Yeo (right) beat her record at
this year's Brett Lydd Marathon

Rebecca on her experience: “It was a very well-organised event and everyone was kind and friendly, it made the day really enjoyable. I’d been aiming for a time of 3:20, however I picked up an injury at mile 12. I kept going despite this and ended up walking the last 8 miles - not quite the plan, but it was still a lovely day.”

Rachael Wood, Managing Director at Nice Work, commented: “The popular Lydd event always heralds the start of Spring, and we are grateful for the support of the Town Mayor, Brett and all our worthy runners.

“This is a true community event raising money for local good causes - a huge well done to everyone who took on the challenge of a half marathon or 20-mile distance.”

If you are interested in taking part in next year's event, please visit the Nice Work website to register www.nice-work.org.uk 

All photos courtesy of Nice Work.