The iconic Great North Run is the largest half marathon in the world, first launching in 1981 with 12,000 runners. A lot has changed since then, the half marathon now welcomes around 60,000 runners to combat the trail from Newcastle to South Shields each September.

One of the most fantastic things about The Great North Run is the incredible amount of money raised by participants for charities, with runners raising substantial amounts for various good causes, including Butterwick Hospice.

We spoke with one of our longest ‘running’ supporters, Tom Pickells, 79, from Eaglescliffe, who has completed The Great North Run an unbelievable 30 times!

Tom first took part in the half marathon in 1990, aged 44, after he was convinced by friends at his Keep Fit Class to join them at that year’s event. In a bid to improve his fitness levels for Football, Tom agreed, and hasn’t looked back. Since then, he has covered an astounding 393 miles across 30 events over the last 35 years.

Tom shared with us that he first started Running for Butterwick following the short illness and passing of his wife, during which time, the Hospice supported Tom by connecting him with Marie Curie Nurses who provided care at home. Tom shared that this meant so much to him, that he decided to support the Hospice by raising vital funds as part of his Great North Run efforts.

As a Gateshead native, Tom loves The Great North Run, but it’s not just being back on his home turf that Tom enjoys. He describes the incredible atmosphere at the event; the music and crowds cheering you on as you run through the various stages of the 13.1 mile route. He finds miles 11-12 miles the most challenging, around the South Shields section, with the incline that challenges runners right at the last hurdle. However, this is all worth it as he, like many runners, go through the mass euphoria of getting over the hill and being able to see the finish line with great cheers through South Shields.

When asked how long he wants to take part in the event, Tom shared that he is going to complete another couple of runs before hanging up his Great North Run vest, but he has one last aim that he’s never achieved… to appear on TV during the half marathon. Over the years, Tom has tried different tactics to tick this wish off his list, including running near some of the most eye-catching fun runners in their giant and colourful costumes, and even managed to get close to some celebrity runners, including Frank Bruno, not to mention high-fiving Kevin Keegan and Bobby Robson at the starting line! But alas, he is yet to appear on the big screen – fingers crossed for this year, Tom!

If you would like to support the Hospice by taking part in the Great North Run, Tough Mudder or any local running event close to you, then please get in touch with our team, email [email protected], or give us a call on 01642 628930.