Runners on course for charity boost

Athletes from around Kirklees massaged tired legs and counted well-earned sponsorship money from Sunday’s Great North Run. 

Dozens of runners from the district joined almost 50,000 others to pound the streets of Newcastle for a variety of good causes. 

Alison Honour (left), 36, of Kirkheaton, raised about £1,500 for the charity Cardiac Risk in the Young, together with her sister Carolyn Brew, 31. 

Alison, a children’s occupational therapist, ran in memory of James Lodge.  The four-year-old, who died tragically last May, was the son of a friend and work colleague. 

Alison, of Kirkheaton, only took up running about 18 months ago. 

Lynn Boughen, 31, of Bradley and Cath Morris, 29, of Paddock, ran for the Percy Hedley Foundation in support of children with cerebral palsy.  They hope to raise about £700. 

“The atmosphere was absolutely brilliant.  It was really, really good,” said Lynn, adding that that all her sponsors had been extremely generous: “I’d like to thank people for their support and donations,” she said. 

Stuart Wood, 56, of Stocksmoor, ran with his daughter Rebecca 24. 

He raised about £770 for the Stroke Association while Rebecca made £860 for Breast Cancer Care. 

“We ran together all the way through – through the start together and through the finish together,” said a proud Mr Wood. 

They caught a glimpse of Olympians Matthew Pinsent and Kelly Holmes who were there to wish all the competitors well. 

“Just running with so many people is an amazing experience,” added Mr Wood. 

Pauline Collins, 48, of Mirfield, earned £250 for the Make-A-Wish Foundation which grants wishes to children living with life-threatening illnesses. 

“The first water table was so far away,” she said.  It was a struggle and I was so very hot and I didn’t think I would finish.  Despite all that I would do it again.”