Competition is hotting up between several Stockton businesses but it’s not what you might think…………………they are hoping to turn the success of running their businesses into a success of running for charity as they compete in the Bupa Great North Run for Butterwick Hospice.
Six local business owners have signed up for the challenge during their weekly BNI networking meeting.
The people in training are Michael Monkman, Partner in Mint Design and Print, Andy Flisher, Director of DotUK, Lisa Halligan, Partner of Elizabeth’s Embroidery, Marianne Holt, Director of Ecetera Magazine, Emma Simkins, Director of Henderson’s Insurance Brokers in Stockton and Russ Sawdon, Director of Flowerhouse. Whilst putting there best feet forward they will also be busy raising funds for their local hospice, Butterwick.
Lisa, 30, of Stockton-on-Tees, a dedicated non-runner, was spurred on to run for the hospice after her best friend; Laura Gourlay spent time at Butterwick before passing away in May this year. Lisa said:
‘I wanted to do something to say thank you. I’m not a runner but this is my challenge, Laura’s challenge was to be there at the finishing line to support me. Unfortunately she lost her battle on the 13th May and now I am very proud to be running in her memory.’
Michael, 28, of Darlington is an adrenalin junkie who has abseiled, bungee jumped and skydived for Butterwick, this year he’s keeping his feet firmly on the ground and taking part in the Great North Run for the first time.
Andy, 35, of Stockton-on-Tees started running in 2009 and has run the Middlesbrough 5K and 10K for the Butterwick, now much fitter and slighter, Andy decided to go for the big one this year.
Marianne, 52 of Yarm, frequently promotes Butterwick events in her Ecetera magazine. When she received the information for the Great North Run she decided this year she had to take part.
Russ, 37, of Eaglescliffe will be running his fourth Great North Run for the Butterwick this year, taking it in his stride he always manages a smile when he arrives at the Butterwick hospitality tent after the run, ready for his chocolate bar and cup of tea!
Emma, 39, of Stokesley, is competing for the second time and is hoping for a personal best this time, but says ‘the training is grueling!’
If you feel inspired to run in memory of a loved one, to take up a challenge and raise funds for your local charity, Butterwick Hospice still has places for this year’s run, but the closing date is only weeks away - Friday 8th July.If you would like to run for Butterwick please call Diane or Gail on 01642 628930 or email gailpearson@butterwick.org.uk or dianewilliamson@butterwick.org.uk
