Sunbelt Rentals named Presenting Partner of the 2026 Cumbrian Challenge

Walking With The Wounded are thrilled to announce Sunbelt Rentals as the Presenting Partner of our flagship fundraising event, the Cumbrian Challenge, set to take place from May 15 to 17, 2026 in the Lake District.

Sunbelt Rentals, the UK’s largest equipment rental provider and a long-standing supporter of WWTW, will headline this year’s event alongside key partners including BAE Systems Submarines, DXC Technology and FDM Group.

The Cumbrian Challenge is WWTW’s flagship fundraising event, inviting participants to tackle one of three hiking routes—Peak, Tough, or Tougher—across the rugged Cumbrian fells. The event raises both funds and awareness for the charity’s vital programmes, which support veterans through employment support, mental health services, and wraparound care coordination.

Martin Lynn, Events Manager at Walking With The Wounded, said:

"We are thrilled that Sunbelt Rentals is returning as Presenting Partner of the Cumbrian Challenge. Over the years, the company has shown unwavering support for the charity and a commitment to giving back to those who served. We’re also grateful to DXC Technology, FDM, BAE Systems and Gasway for their continuing support. We are excited to welcome their staff back to the event this year and cheer them on as they take on the Cumbrian hills in support of veterans and their families.”

Leanne Casey, Product Data Co-ordinator at Sunbelt Rentals, added:

“We’re really proud to be taking part in the Cumbrian Challenge again, for the fifth year running, in support of Walking With The Wounded. Giving back to the communities we work in matters to us, and this challenge is a great way to support a charity that makes a genuine difference to veterans and their families. For our teammates taking part, the Cumbrian Challenge is a tough but rewarding day in the Lake District. It brings everyone together as one team, helps build resilience and gives us the chance to support a cause that matters to us. It strengthens connections across the business, lifts morale and reminds us why supporting Walking With The Wounded means so much to us.”

Derek Allison, General Manager for DXC Technology in the UK and Ireland, said:

“We’re proud to support Walking With The Wounded’s Cumbrian Challenge once again this year. This is more than a team-building event – it’s a powerful demonstration of resilience, teamwork and purpose, set in one of the UK’s most demanding landscapes. At DXC, we’re committed to making a positive impact in the communities we operate in, and we’re delighted to stand behind such an important cause that supports those who have served our country. We wish all participants the very best for this year’s challenge.”

James Murray, Head of Ex-Forces Recruitment at FDM Group, said,

"As FDM Group prepares to head back to Grasmere for the 11th consecutive year, our participation in the Cumbrian Challenge continues to reflect our deep dedication to supporting veterans and their families through the vital work of Walking With The Wounded (WWTW). Our commitment is driven by the event’s clarity of purpose and the meaningful impact it enables. Each year, our teams come together not only for the adventure, but to champion a cause that delivers life changing support to those who have served. Over the last 12 years, FDM is proud to have supported 900 ex-servicemen and women into civilian careers through our UK Ex-Forces Programme. By stepping onto the hills of Cumbria once again, we reaffirm our support for a charity whose programmes help rebuild lives—Good luck to all the FDM-ers taking part!"

Janet Garner, Future Workforce Director BAE Systems Submarines, added: "Our Armed Forces personnel put their lives on the line to keep the nation safe, BAE Systems remains both proud and committed to supporting them during and after their service. The UK's Veterans deserve respect and thanks for their selfless commitment to all we hold dear; our sponsorship of Cumbrian Challenge not only helps Veterans but also contributes to the local community, both of which are invaluable. Good luck to all involved in this worthwhile cause.”

As excitement builds for the 2026 event, teams from across the UK are preparing to take on the physical and mental challenge of the Cumbrian hills—all in support of those who have served.