Ealing Half Marathon Issues Call for 400 Volunteers
Route marshals urgently needed for west London's biggest running event
Organisers say, “none of it happens without the people in the hi-vis.”. Picture: Ealing Half Marathon
July 21, 2026
The Wizz Air Ealing Half Marathon is appealing to residents, community groups and local organisations to step forward as volunteers, with 400 positions still to be filled ahead of race weekend on 26–27 September. Route marshals are the most urgently needed, but organisers say there is a role for everyone willing to give a few hours to support one of West London’s flagship events.
More than 700 volunteers power the half marathon each year, guiding runners around the course, staffing water stations, supporting families in the Race Village at Walpole Park and helping to deliver the smooth running of an event that has raised over £3.5 million for charity since 2012. As the organisers say, “none of it happens without the people in the hi-vis.”
Volunteering is open to all, with no experience or fitness requirements. Individuals, families, students, retirees, faith groups, clubs, charities and companies are encouraged to take part, with organisers emphasising that just four to six hours on race day can make a meaningful difference. Full guidance is provided, and every volunteer is supported by Team Leaders throughout their shift.
Roles on Sunday 27 September include route marshals, water station teams, baggage support, Race Village marshals, set-up crew and Team Leaders. Many volunteers are runners themselves who choose to give back for a year. One returning volunteer, Tó B, said: “I’ve run the EHM twice, but I decided to give it a break and volunteered to help a brilliant team that do amazing work — work you can only see in depth if you are part of the team.”
Groups are particularly encouraged to get involved. Community organisations, charities, clubs and businesses can volunteer together and be stationed as a team, making it a lively group activity, a team-building day or a chance for students to complete volunteering requirements. Family-friendly roles are also available at the Trailfinders Ealing Mini Mile on Saturday 26 September. Candice W, who volunteered at last year’s Mini Mile, described it as “a really enjoyable day with a fantastic atmosphere.”
Event Director Sandra Courtney says volunteers are at the heart of what makes the Ealing Half Marathon distinctive. “Our volunteers ARE the #EalingFeeling,” she said. “Runners tell us every year that the support on this course is unlike anything else in London — and that comes from the people of Ealing standing on the streets making it happen. Whether you come alone or bring your whole club, congregation or office, we have a role for you and we’d love to have you with us.”
Volunteers who complete their role receive free entry to the 2027 Ealing Half Marathon, along with food and drink on the day, hands-on event experience, new connections and what organisers describe as “the best seat in the house” for Ealing’s biggest weekend of the year. As returning volunteer Nishamani E. put it: “It was such fun!”
Registration takes just two minutes at ealinghalfmarathon.com/volunteer, and groups interested in organising a team can contact info@ealinghalfmarathon.com.
The Wizz Air Ealing Half Marathon celebrates its 15th year in 2026. The main race takes place on Sunday 27 September, with the Trailfinders Ealing Mini Mile on Saturday 26 September. The Race Village is based in Walpole Park.
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