The group’s aim is for each participant to clock up 100 miles in support of suicide prevention charity The Headlight Project.
The initiative, organised by club member Dr Mark Yeoman, a psychologist, has brought together runners of varying ages and abilities – all united by a determination to raise money and awareness for a cause that makes a real difference to people’s lives.
The challenge sees each runner aiming to complete 100 miles during October and November, with members fitting in the extra mileage around their everyday commitments.
Mark said: “It’s been a great challenge so far, and it’s involved lots of our club’s runners, who all have different abilities. It’s a lot of miles to cover!”
The fundraising effort is supporting The Headlight Project, a charity dedicated to suicide prevention and providing vital support to those affected by suicide.
Mark explained: “The Headlight Project is a fantastic organisation that is helping people bereaved by suicide, offering counselling at a time when people are finding it tricky to come to terms with what’s happened. The project also provides training and education to increase awareness of suicide and how we can prevent it. We need to have a community focus to reach out and help people to seek support, whether this is through the NHS or community organisations.”
The North East has the highest suicide rates in the country, and the rates are particularly high among men. Significant work is taking place in local communities and across the NHS to reduce deaths by suicide. The Headlight Project is a key part of this commitment, alongside other community projects. The North East also has some of the kindest communities, which are helping to tackle this problem.
Mark went on: “As the miles continue to add up, the challenge is proving to be a fantastic example of community spirit, teamwork and the positive impact running clubs can have beyond the sport itself. Running and sport are known to help with mental health, and the club is open to people of all abilities who wish to join.”
He added: “With every step, the Burn Road Harriers are helping to raise awareness of an incredibly important cause while showing that runners of all abilities can come together to make a difference. If you see runners and walkers wearing orange beanie hats, give them a wave or a toot!”
Anyone wishing to support the fundraising effort can make a donation to The Headlight Project by visiting:
https://www.headlightproject.org
Anyone interested in learning more about Hartlepool Burn Road Harriers, can visit their Facebook page.
