More than 100 runners in County Durham raised more than £ 12,000 for charity for two women who have been diagnosed with breast cancer.

Members of Seaham’s two running groups, Seaham Aspiring Ladies (SAL) and Vane Tempest Running Club, took on two huge running challenges, including a mileage accumulator and the 40th Great North Run.

A total of 107 runners collectively covered over 2,000 miles over the summer to raise money for Maggie’s, a cancer center located within the grounds of Newcastle Freeman Hospital.

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The groups came together to support two of their members, Muriel Ayre and Debbie Cooper, both of whom were diagnosed with breast cancer last year in unprecedented times.

Muriel, 61, said: “The effort from both running groups was amazing, it was amazing to see so many people running or walking in orange in your hometown and then finishing the Great North Run after a year so. difficile was a real highlight.

“The amount that has been raised by this group is incredible. I am very proud to be part of such a special community.

“After my cancer diagnosis I went to Maggie’s across the street and was greeted by their team who sat with me for over an hour listening to my fears. ‘helped understand why I felt the way I did and that it was Ordinary.

“Knowing that the money raised will go a long way to helping other people like me who felt a bit lost in what to do, all the training and the miles are worth it. “

The team turned the city orange, wearing brightly colored tops and disguises to run their miles over the seven days.

In total, the groups raised £ 12,789 for Maggies, which provides free support and advice to people with cancer, their family and friends.

And on Wednesday, November 17, members of both groups gathered in Seaham to officially hand over the check to Maggie’s team.

Debbie, 53, said: “I have been to the Great North Run 15 times, but this year was certainly my proudest knowing that we have all contributed to such an amazing fundraising goal.

“Getting to the end of cancer treatment is just the start of reconstruction. 18 months later and my foundations are less fragile but every day has a new challenge.

“Maggie’s does so much to rebuild people and give them love, support the compassion and the confidence to move forward, so I’m really proud to be able to give them this fantastic amount of money so that they can continue such a good job in the North East. “

Karen Verrill, Central Director of Maggie’s Newcastle, said: “Together Muriel, Debbie and all of the Seaham riders have accomplished something incredible. We are so grateful to everyone involved. Their fundraiser will support approximately 400 visits. at Maggie’s.

“Maggie’s is there for everyone touched by cancer, including family and friends. Our frontline team is made up of specialist oncology nurses with the time and expertise to listen to people’s concerns and guide them to the support or answers they need.

“You can just come in. Our doors are open Monday to Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and our kettle is always on. “

The friendly and inclusive running groups, created by Sally Hall, a Seaham resident, meet on the Seaham waterfront, with SALs every Monday and Wednesday night and the Vane Tempest Running Club meeting every Saturday morning.

Sally recently won the Community Impact Project Award at the 2021 National Community Fitness Awards, for her efforts in building running groups to benefit the local community using physical activity.

For more information on Maggie’s Newcastle visit: www.maggies.org

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