UPDATE: well we did it! We both got round the track in one piece and it was truly a day to remember! Now that the pain is finally leaving our bodies, thank you so much for all of your donations, good luck messages and support. We are delighted that through your generosity we have raised so much for a hospice that means a lot to our families and the North East community. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you.

This September, Stee (Kirsty) and Al (Anneliese) embark upon a once in a lifetime Northern challenge. We will be pounding the streets of our hometown, Newcastle upon Tyne, in order to raise much needed funds for a wonderful charity.

Both being Geordie lasses, we decided that running our first (and only!) Great North Run was a great way to support and raise funds for St Oswald’s Hospice, a local charity that is very close to our hearts. Needless to say, our half marathon run will not be a pleasant one, but it will absolutely be more than worth it if we can reach our target. St Oswald’s has been providing dedicated, specialist care for adults, young people and children with life limiting conditions for the past 25 years. Our awareness of their amazing work was increased this year when the hospice looked after a family friend who passed away after a short battle with cancer.

So please, anything you can give, whether the cost of a bottle of ‘Broon in the toon or the price of a round in London would be very much appreciated. We’ll never ask you again. Promise.