News and Events

Running to put Sunshine in our lives

By the Evening Chronicle

Hundreds of big-hearted runners will be helping to raise funds for sick and needy youngsters.
The Sunshine Run, which takes place on Wednesday along Newcastle and Gateshead quaysides, will raise more than £30,000 for the Chronicle's Sunshine Fund.

Up to 800 of our loyal readers have entered, either individually or in company and club teams, with the aim of raising the cash to buy vital specialist equipment for children in the region.

For the event, sponsored by Barclays, competitors will either walk, jog or run the five-kilometre route.
Sunshine Fund co-ordinator Carol Botten said: "We've been staggered by the number of people who've come forward to take part.

"The Sunshine Run will raise vital funds for us to provide equipment, apparatus and learning aids for sick, disabled and disadvantaged North East children.

"There are many families, schools, community groups and hospital units that desperately need our help."
We asked that all the participants try to raise £50 in sponsorship and are optimistic that more than £30,000 will be raised through the event.

This is so we can help even more North East children. For example, £180 will pay for soft-play garden equipment for a child with autism, while £439 will pay for car ramps, rails and fasteners to enable a wheelchair-user to travel in the family van.

A sum of £900 will pay for a trike for a child with cerebral palsy to improve his or her mobility and independence, and £3,307 will fully equip a children's hospital rehabilitation room with educational, therapeutic and rehabilitation toys.

Running clubs Gateshead Harriers, Elswick Harriers and Heaton Harriers are all involved in the Sunshine Run and are lending their vast experience of organising running events in the region. They will be making sure the run adheres to UK Athletic rules and will be providing marshals and event officials.

Barclays staff are wholeheartedly behind the run with more than 70 of the bank's staff taking part and many more helping out as volunteer marshals.

More than 150 companies across the North East have employees taking part in the run, with many firms entering large teams.

In addition, many employees have challenged their boss to take part and there will be a prize for the chief who raises the most sponsorship money.

The run will start at 7pm, but we ask all runners to be at the assembly area at St Ann's Wharf, East Newcastle Quayside next to The Pitcher & Piano at 6.30pm.

The start is near to Wesley Square on the Newcastle Quayside.
Competitors should be sure to check in their baggage at the Guildhall before making their way to the assembly area.