Belmont fundraiser to do 'Great North biathlon' in memory of his mother

John Appleby, from Belmont near Durham City, is taking part in this year’s Great North Run to raise money for the hospice which cared for his mother during the last weeks of her life.

But instead of finishing in South Shields with the thousands of other runners, the 47-year-old is planning to hop on his bike and cycle more than 20 miles back to Belmont.

He said: “I’ve done the Great North Run twice before and this year I wanted to do a bit more. I love cycling so I’m going to combine the two.

“My mam always pushed me through my life so I’m going to try and challenge myself.

“I’m training as hard as I possibly can for the people who have sponsored me. I’m not going to let them down, even if I have to crawl.”

The father-of-two, who is also a keen boxer, will be raising money for St Cuthbert’s Hospice, in Durham.

The hospice looked after his mother Jennifer Appleby, who died of cancer six years ago, aged 60.

Mr Appleby, who works as a warehouse driver for Morrells in Team Valley, added: “They did a fantastic job. It was so lovely and peaceful and mam always commented on how lovely the nurses were. That’s why I wanted to do something for them. It’s very close to my heart.”

At the end of the cycle he will be returning to Belmont workingmen’s club to draw a raffle.

Local businesses have also been rallying around to help his raise funds, including the Crusty Bun bakery and Enigma salon, both in High Street, Carrville.

Mr Appleby, who has previously raised money for the hospice by holding charity football matches, said: “The community always helps us out with collections so I’d like to say thank you to everyone.”

St Cuthbert’s Hospice, in Merryoaks, provides specialist palliative and end of life care to anyone affected by life-limiting illnesses.

It provides its services for free and needs to raise £1.3 million each year to supplement its NHS funding.

To sponsor Mr Appleby visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/john-appleby11