Mission: Unbreakable returns to North Devon for another year

There are few events in Devon that can claim to leave participants soaked, exhausted, grinning from ear to ear and already planning their return before the mud has dried. Mission: Unbreakable has built exactly that reputation over the past decade – blending military-inspired adventure with one of the region's most important causes.

Now the much-loved challenge is preparing for another year, with Mission: Unbreakable returning on Sunday, October 4 at North Molton Sports Club, where close to 1,000 people are expected to take on the demanding 10km course across the edge of Exmoor.

Teams pull together during one of the strength-based challenges on the Mission: Unbreakable course. (Image: North Devon Hospice)

Designed alongside 24 Commando Royal Engineers based at RMB Chivenor, the route leads participants through more than 30 obstacles, combining woodland, open countryside, water crossings and military-style challenges that test determination rather than outright athletic ability.

What has made the event such a fixture in Devon's fundraising calendar is not simply the scale of the challenge, but the difference it makes. Every participant is helping North Devon Hospice continue providing specialist care and support to people with life-limiting illnesses across the region, with organisers asking entrants to raise a minimum of £80 through sponsorship.

Lizzie Hanks, head of fundraising at North Devon Hospice, said: "We see all abilities taking part in Mission: Unbreakable, because this is not about how fit you are, it is about how determined you are.

"Despite the tough nature of the course, it is so much fun getting wet and muddy with your mates, and there are always big smiles at the finish line when people realise what they have achieved."

Competitors embrace the mud as they tackle one of the event's most memorable downhill obstacles. (Image: North Devon Hospice)

She added: "We are asking all those taking part to raise a minimum of £80, to help us provide care when it matters most. For ourselves or our loved ones, we would want those final months, weeks and days to be filled with precious moments – enjoyed in comfort and dignity. Your hospice can make this possible, but only with your support.

"So get your team together and sign up to Mission: Unbreakable today. Let us conquer the challenge and make a difference together."

Over more than ten years, thousands of participants have tackled the course, raising hundreds of thousands of pounds to help fund hospice care across North Devon. Much of that support enables specialist teams to care for patients in the comfort of their own homes, surrounded by family and familiar surroundings.

Abi Daley, deputy team lead of North Devon Hospice's community team, said: "We visit patients at home, to help them stay in the place they are most content, surrounded by their home comforts and their loved ones.

"With the funds raised through Mission: Unbreakable, we are able to continue caring for local people in this way. It is truly life-changing, for the patients and their families. Please sign up and show your support for those who need it most. Thank you."

The event's enduring success has also been supported by long-standing sponsors, with Wollens returning as headline sponsor for another year.

Determination and smiles go hand in hand as participants navigate the camouflage crawl. (Image: North Devon Hospice)

Jon Dunkley, partner at Wollens, said: "At Wollens, we are incredibly proud to continue as headline sponsor of Mission: Unbreakable because North Devon Hospice provides care that touches so many families across our region.

"Their commitment to supporting people through life's most difficult moments reflects values we share as a firm: compassion, community and standing alongside people when they need it most.

"Mission: Unbreakable is more than just an event; it brings our community together to achieve something extraordinary while raising vital funds that help the hospice continue its outstanding work. We are honoured to play our part in ensuring this incredible challenge continues to grow and that North Devon Hospice can keep providing exceptional care for local patients and their loved ones."

New obstacles are planned for the 2026 event, with organisers promising fresh challenges for returning competitors alongside the signature mud, water and teamwork that have become synonymous with Mission: Unbreakable. Early Recruit discounted entry is available until Friday, July 31, via missionunbreakable.co.uk.