Sunday 21st June, 2026

Headstone Head2Head is our most ambitious fundraising challenge to date, created to raise vital funds and awareness for families who need support in purchasing a headstone for their child.

At its heart, this challenge is both physical and symbolic. It asks participants to carry the weight that so many bereaved families are left to carry alone.

Already convinced? Sign up by emailing [email protected] 

The Challenge

Teams of eight will take on a timed endurance challenge across the Malvern Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Each team will carry a stretcher weighing 60kg – the average weight of a child’s headstone – for the entire “sun-up” period of the challenge. The weight must be carried continuously as teams traverse hilly terrain, moving between checkpoints throughout the day.

The challenge begins shortly after sunrise and continues until teams leave the hills at least one hour before sunset. Teams will start from designated points at either the north or south of the Malvern Hills and will be guided throughout the route by event staff and marshals.

This is not simply a test of speed. It is a test of endurance, teamwork, and resilience.

Checkpoints are positioned along the route, some of which will be staffed and provide food and water. Teams receive a token at each checkpoint as proof of progress.

Rankings are based on the number of checkpoints reached during the challenge window. In the event of a tie, the organisers’ decision is final. Teams may choose to stop at any point if needed – participant safety and wellbeing always come first.

Preparation, Safety & Support

Although this is a team challenge, individual preparation is essential. Participants should expect long periods of walking over hilly terrain while collectively carrying significant weight. We strongly encourage personal training in advance and ensuring walking boots are fully worn in.

On the day, teams will be supported by trained route marshals, first aiders and paramedic staff, as well as safety vehicles positioned nearby. Stevie Stones will provide the equipment required to transport the headstone weight, along with full briefings and route details ahead of the event.

A detailed participant pack, including equipment guidance and safety information, is provided after registration.

Why We Created Headstone Head2Head

Stevie Stones exists to ensure no child is forgotten.

Families who come to us are facing unimaginable loss, often alongside sudden financial pressure. For many, the cost of even a simple headstone is out of reach — yet a memorial represents permanence, remembrance, and a place to grieve.

As a small, volunteer-run charity, fundraising is the only way we can continue this work. Headstone Head2Head was born from the desire of our supporters to do something meaningful: to raise funds, raise awareness, and honour the children at the heart of everything we do.

Ready to Take On the Challenge?

Teams must consist of eight participants and register by 1 May 2026. There is a £500 entry fee per team, and all participants are encouraged to fundraise as much as possible to support the work of Stevie Stones.

Emergency contact details and medical forms are required for all participants. Every participant will receive an event T-shirt and medal, with trophies and prizes awarded to the winning team.

Headstone Head2Head is about more than completing a route. It’s about standing alongside grieving families and ensuring no child is forgotten.

If you’re ready to gather a team and take on the challenge, simply drop us an email to book your spot: [email protected]