Home News North East News

Fun in the sun for all on Great North Run

Sep 20 2009 Sunday Sun

Zoë, 23, who had a newborn baby, died three years ago of lymphoma, and they lost an eight-year-old cousin to leukaemia.

Cathy said: “We don’t want anyone else to go through what we did. Leukaemia used to be a death sentence for children, but now, because of researchers, more than four in five cases are cured.”

Colin Jackson was firing the starting pistol. He said: “Today has been absolutely fantastic. All the kids have big smiles on their faces. The North East is a great area for athletics and I’m really pleased to see so many people here today. I’m not running the Great North Run though - I’m dancing!”

Parents were hoisting their kids above their heads to high-five him as they passed.

Chelsea Nugent, 11, of Carlisle, won the Junior Girls event.

She said: “I’m excited but not as excited as my parents. I came third last year but this has been great.”

Dad Shaun said: “It’s brilliant for the kids - a great experience. I would have needed a motorbike to keep up with Chelsea.”

Over the river in Gateshead, England thumped Australia 10-1 in the Battle for the Athletics Ashes.

Christine Ohuruogu and Marlon Devonish became British record holders. Christine said: “I love it up here in Newcastle.”

Keep up to date with the news. Sign up for News Alerts

Have your say on the latest news and sport in our Forums

Site Tools

Related Stories

Related Tags

(What's this)