In May, I’ll be taking on Hardmoors110, a 110 mile ultramarathon that follows the undulating North Yorkshire coastline from Filey to Saltburn before heading inland across the rugged North York Moors to Helmsley, all within a 36 hour time limit.

I’m running this challenge in memory of my mum, who sadly passed away last October. As we continue to process this, one thing that brings our family real comfort is knowing that Teesside Hospice gave her exceptional care during her final weeks. Their support meant so much to us, and because they rely so heavily on charitable donations, I’m grateful for the chance to give something back to such a deserving cause.

I’ve run ultras and marathons before, but never for a charity. This will be my biggest event to date, both in distance (110 miles) and elevation (16,000 ft), and it feels fitting that this is the one that I do for a charitable cause so close to our hearts now.

Why this race?

I grew up in Saltburn, right on the Cleveland Way, and spent much of my childhood somewhere along this trail with my family. From trips to Whitby where I waited patiently outside the goth shops for my mum and sister, to days out in Scarborough at the Sealife Centre or Kinderland, to being regularly reminded of my sister’s unbeatable achievement of climbing Roseberry Topping before the age of two. I have many happy memories with my mum all along this trail which made it the fitting challenge to take on in her memory.

I would be grateful for any support, however big or small, but if you'd prefer to donate towards Teesside Hospice in an alternative way, they also have an exceptional café that’s well worth a visit.