Ten Teamwork Trust supporters overcame hills, blisters, sore knees and emotional challenges as they crossed the Great North Run finish line – raising thousands of pounds for the Northamptonshire charity.

The runners took on the gruelling 13.1-mile race in Newcastle upon Tyne as a team, collectively aiming to raise a total of £10,000 to help adults with mental health needs, physical and learning disabilities.

Now up to almost £8,000, and with more fundraising to collect, they are well on the way to hitting the target.

Husband and wife, Kathryn and Andy Brown celebrated their wedding anniversary by running the half marathon – completing the race in two hours and 50 minutes.

“It was a massive test, lots of hills and it was quite warm too which was an extra challenge, but we all supported each other in true Teamwork Trust style, and everybody did so well. Andy held my hand when it got particularly tough but thinking about the members we were raising money for, and seeing the moving messages on the backs of other runners gave us the motivation to keep going.

“I have never been so pleased to see the seaside in my life as that’s when I knew we were nearing the finish. The huge blisters I now have are worth it because we’ve raised money for such an important cause.”

Other runners included Sean Franklin, who was crowned ‘Teamwork Bullet’, finishing in an amazing one hour and 56 minutes, 60 year-old strategic director, John Bruce, who became Teamwork’s oldest Great North Run participant, and Teamwork Trust support worker, Olly Healey – who overcame a knee injury to take part and was given the title ‘Most Inspiring Runner’.

Olly added: “My training hadn’t gone to plan and my knee towards the end was agony, but I would still do it all again. The day was incredible, and the atmosphere was such fun. The whole experience was thoroughly enjoyable on so many levels and we should all feel very proud of what we’ve achieved.”

Special thanks to Kettering-based holiday rental company, apartments4you for sponsoring the Teamwork branded t-shirts for runners, and Northants businessman, Simon Cox for arranging them. Thanks also to Kettering Park Hotel for offering training facilities for the runners in their gym and to Elba UK for covering expenses during the stay in Newcastle.

To donate click HERE.