A big thank you to our intrepid runners who completed the Great North Run. They joined tens of thousands for a new route which saw runners cross the Tyne Bridge twice and loop back to face an uphill ending to their 13.1-mile race in Newcastle city centre.

Annmarie has recently been treated for thyroid cancer and told us: As a recent thyroid cancer survivor, training for the GNR was a daunting prospect but I was determined! Waking up on the day I was full of nerves and the staggered starts due to Covid-19 meant that I watched the elite race on TV before I was even dressed to leave the hotel. Unfortunately, this meant I also heard many comments about how hard the revised course was, with more hills than expected! The Red Arrows coming over was electric and gave me goosebumps of sheer excitement. My running buddy and training partner, Louisa, had her own place,
but we were wearing matching BTF vests and off we went. Crossing the iconic Tyne Bridge was fantastic, with crowds of people clapping and cheering. With a slight downhill start, I was feeling good. The bulk of the run was along the bypass. It was undulating but the live music bands and support of the amazing locals helped to distract us. Coming back into Newcastle the hard work began with a long slow climb to the finish.
I had a bit of a wobble but Louisa reminded me I could do it. After a bit of a walk up a steep section, we got going again for the last mile and a half to the finish. Emotion overtook me as I crossed the line in 2 hrs 42 mins and 11 seconds. I was overwhelmed by my sense of achievement. My first ever half marathon and I smashed it!

More importantly, I raised money and awareness of thyroid cancer and the great work the BTF does in supporting and informing sufferers. Annmarie raised £925 for the BTF.

Dave also took part to raise awareness and funds for our work. He said: It was a
different day at the GNR but no less emotional and enjoyable. The new route was difficult but I did it in 1:53. Dave raised £191 for our work

Ann-marie and Louisa!	Ann-marie and Louisa running!