Headscarf Hustle 2026: Walk or Run for History

Posted 22nd January 2026

An event with meaning - on International Women's Day

Hull’s riverside will come alive this International Women’s Day as people of all ages and abilities come together for the Headscarf Hustle – a powerful 5km run or walk along the Humber with a mission that goes far beyond fitness. Taking place on Sunday 8th March 10am (International Women’s Day), the Headscarf Hustle aims to raise the profile of the campaign to build a statue in Hull.  This honours the Headscarf Revolutionaries – the remarkable women who changed fishing safety forever. Led by Lillian Bilocca, alongside her fellow campaigners, these Hull women stood up to injustice in the 1960s after the tragic loss of local fishermen. Their determination forced vital safety reforms in the fishing industry, saving countless lives and leaving a legacy that deserves permanent recognition in the city they called home.

In true recognition of the Headscarf Revolutionaries, every participant will receive not only an event number but also a headscarf to wear on the day. The headscarf was the unmistakable trademark of the original campaigners and has become a powerful symbol of solidarity and remembrance. Each year, the headscarves are handmade by local volunteers, who come together one afternoon ahead of the event to create around 400 headscarves with care and pride. Adding to the excitement, a brand-new design is created for the event every year.  

Organised by Fitmums and Friends, on behalf of the Headscarf Revolutionaries Statue Management Committee the Headscarf Hustle is about remembering history, celebrating women's voices, and inspiring future generations.

Distance: 5km (approx)

Route: Along the Humber river path

Start point: Next to The Deep (Sammie’s Point) what3words: trunk /// flank /// hops

Who for? Open to everyone – you can run or walk.  Please note this is not a timed event, but participants are welcome to time themselves.  Buggies and wheelchairs welcome.  Please be aware NO BIKES, SCOOTERS, DOGS (apart from assistance dogs) allowed on the route with participants.

Please note there is strictly NO PARKING IN ANY OF THE CARPARKS AT THE DEEP. There are many nearby alternative options (see below).

Entry fees

£10 – ages 16+ years

£5 – ages 5–15 years

We're delighted to announce that Jessie, one of the unforgettable faithfuls from the latest series of The Traitors will be joining us this year.  She's thrilled to be a part of this special occasion celebrating the courage and spirit of the Headscarf Revolutionaries on International Women's Day.  The event will be officially started by BBC Look North presenter Peter Levy, adding to what promises to be a memorable and meaningful day. 

Proceeds from the event will support Fitmums and Friends and the Headscarf Revolutionaries statue campaign, with a strong focus on raising awareness and momentum to see this long-overdue statue built in Hull.

Why take part?

This International Women’s Day, step forward for women who stepped up when it mattered most. Whether you’re running, walking, pushing a buggy or rolling along in a wheelchair, the Headscarf Hustle is about community, inclusion, and honouring four extraordinary women who changed history.

You can enter the event HERE Closing Date:  5th March 2026 10am

For more information about the campaign see here

For enquiries admin@fitmums.org.uk 

Pull on your trainers, wear your headscarf with pride, and join Hull in making history visible.

Travel & Parking Information

Please note there is STRICTLY NO PARKING in any of the car parks at The Deep.

From East Hull and Bransholme using buses, alight on Alfred Gelder St (Near Drypool Bridge) and walk down High St towards Myton Bridge.

There is cycle parking outside The Deep.

The nearest multi-storey car park is the Fruit Market and a separate surface car park on High St (Both next to Myton Bridge) - a short walk over the Millenium footbridge (Next to Tidal Barrier) that brings you straight to The Deep. Here are more details HERE

Useful travel links HERE

A range of merchandise supporting the Headscarf Revolutionaries Campaign has been produced by Clemwear and is availble to buy here.

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