MISSION: UNBREAKABLE SEES 750 GET MUDDY FOR NORTH DEVON HOSPICE 

North Devon Hospice’s commando challenge, Mission: Unbreakable, could break all records as 750 people signed up to get muddy for the cause last Sunday. The hardy fundraisers braved the mud, obstacles, and freezing water in order to call themselves an ‘Unbreakable’. All sponsorship raised by participants will support patients and families facing a life-limiting illness, and it’s hoped that a record amount could be raised as sponsorship continues to flow in.  

The event - kindly supported by headline sponsor Wollens - involves tackling a military-style 10k course in the rugged countryside surrounding North Molton, as well as more than 30 obstacles designed with the help of 24 Commando Royal Engineers from RMB Chivenor. 

The course has become famous for its challenges including the ‘Sheep Dip’, and ‘Freezing Private Ryan.’ This year saw a leap of faith from a tower as the final obstacle, with ‘CT1 & Out’ - kindly sponsored by CT1 South West. 

Georgia Bedgood, North Devon Hospice’s Event Manager, said how amazing it was to see people push themselves for the cause, but also have so much fun along the way. “Mission: Unbreakable is simply the best event, because you see people really dig deep and find inner reserves of courage they didn’t know they had. No matter their age or fitness level, everyone pushes themselves, and that’s so inspiring. But at the same time, the course is full of smiles and laughter because everyone is having the best time. It really is absolute joy to be part of, especially when it’s all for a cause as vital as North Devon Hospice.” 

Headline sponsor, law firm Wollens, once again had a big team taking part on the day, as they continue their long-standing support of the event. “It was freezing, but so much fun!” said Katy, who was taking part with Team Wollens for the first time. “The huge jump at the end was brilliant, and support from all the volunteers the whole way round was really motivating too.” 

“I think the Sheep Dip was my favourite part!” added Rebecca, another from Team Wollens taking on Mission: Unbreakable for the first time. “So, so cold but we got great encouragement and it’s also for an amazing cause. We loved it.” 

Stephen Roberts, Chief Executive of North Devon Hospice, said that it was down to the support of so many incredible local businesses, that Mission: Unbreakable could be such a fundraising success. “We’re so grateful to headline sponsor Wollens and all the amazing companies who’ve made today possible.” he said. “Thanks to them, we’re able to put on an event which is without comparison in the South West. It’s a huge operation, but to have 750 people sign up to take part is incredible, and they all enjoyed themselves while really going the extra mile for our hospice. Every pound they raise will help a local patient or family member, who is facing a life-limiting illness. It doesn’t get more important than that, and we want to thank every single person who has helped in any way.” 

Those who sponsored Mission: Unbreakable 2025 are: Wollens, Advanced Scaffolding, Pure Dental Centre, Parker, Trees for Good Causes, Stannp.com, Smurfit Westrock Atlas, CT1 in the South West, Lycette Care, Simpkins Edwards, Torch Farm & Equine Vets, TP Pumps, Vertu Exeter MINI and dryrobe®. 

Thanks also go to the army of nearly 100 volunteers on the day, the local landowners and farmers along the course, as well as 24 Commando Royal Engineers, North Molton Sports Centre, Apex Safety, National Grid, Kirkham Tyres, DB Max Timings, and Park School.  

To find out more about events in aid of North Devon Hospice like Mission: Unbreakable, visit northdevonhospice.org.uk.