I've once again made the last-minute decision to take on the Great North Run in support of the Great North Air Ambulance Service. This time, everyone's favourite snowman is coming out of retirement for one final run. I'm fairly sure I said that last time too, but here we are! It will be my 11th Great North Run and Olaf's 5th, and I'm looking forward to lacing up for a cause that means so much and does so much to save lives in our region

On 13 September 2026, I'll be taking on the Great North Run 2026, a hard challenge filled with miles, memories, and probably a little bit of costume-related overheating along the way. I've only got a few weeks to get used to running in the snowman outfit again, so if you spot a slightly melted snowman out on a training run in 30 degree heat, please feel free to throw some water my way! Or an ice cream.

The Great North Air Ambulance Service rescues hundreds of seriously ill and injured people every year across the North East, North Yorkshire, and Cumbria. Their doctor-led critical care teams bring life-saving treatment directly to the scene, whether that is on a fell top, by the roadside, or in a city centre. In 2024 alone, they responded to 2,083 call outs, delivering vital care when every second mattered.

I am fundraising with a target of GBP 300, and I would be so grateful for any support you can give. Please consider donating to help the Great North Air Ambulance Service continue their incredible work and be there for people when they need it most. Every contribution, no matter the size, makes a real difference.