The Great North Run 2003

The Great North Run is the biggest half-marathon in the world, and it all takes place in the area covered by the MND Association Tyne and Wear Branch.

Some 47,000 runners took part on 21 September in near ideal weather.

We give special thanks to the 70 or so runners who were running in support of MND Association. Their effort - both during the Run itself and the long months of training - is an immense benefit to the Association.

Hilary Maddren

Stories and Pictures from the Great North Run 2003

Andy Hara completed the Great North Run in 1 hour and 52 minutes and raised £891 for the Branch. His work colleague, Lorraine Young, completed the equally arduous task of obtaining sponsorships for him and collecting the money afterwards.

Cheryl Stroud was running for her sister Helen, who died of MND in November 2003. She raised over £4,000.


Andrew Hara	Cheryl Stroud	Jayne Robson and Steven	Liz Thirkell

Sandra Crossley raised £650.77 (including Gift Aid tax recovery). It was her first Great North Run. She suffered cartilage damage during the race but "if I'm fit enough then I'd like to join you again next year. (No pain, no gain!)"


Sandra Crossley	David Ridley	Lucinder Butcher	Paul Burchell

Sally Monks: "What a successful event, I am looking forward to taking part next year."


Sally Monks	Brian Stokoe	Barry Angove

Kindred Charities Working Together

This year MND Association was not able to pitch its own marquee due to changes made by the Great North Run organisers. We are very grateful to the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign which willingly allowed us to share their hospitality tent.

The MND Association started in 1978 under the wing of the then Muscular Dystrophy Group. Twenty five years on and the two charities can still work together.

Ken Hylton with Sue Allan
of the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign