Great North Run for charity close to Ballymoney mum's heart

Arlene Pettinger, who is a familiar face at Smyth’s Eurospar, has been fundraising for Macmillan Cancer Support for a number of years, in memory of her daughter Lisa who died of a brain tumour at the age of 12.

Remarkably, Arlene has taken part in 12 marathons, and has to date, raised a ‘running’ total of £59,107 and still counting.

She will be taking part in The Great North Run Newcastle in England on Sunday, September 11.

Arlene, who had reached a milestone birthday a few weeks ago, commented: “I can think of no better way of celebrating than to be able to stand on the start line of The Great North Run at the age of 60 having raised £60,000 for Macmillan Cancer Support.”

The Great North Run is the world’s largest half marathon with over 56,000 runners enjoying the unique atmosphere as the 13.1 mile route takes them through Newcastle including crossing the iconic Tyne Bridge and on to South Shields.

The atmosphere is enhanced by thousands of supporters who this year, it is hoped, will be cheering on at least one entry from every member state of the United Nations.

The local long-distance runner is quick to praise those who have supported her fundraising endeavours.

“I can never thank the people of Ballymoney enough. It is because of their generosity that I find myself this close to having raised £60,000 in memory of Lisa,” said Arlene.

If you would like to help Arlene reach her goal, you can visit her fundraising page at just giving Arlene-Pettinger60, check her out on Facebook or she can be contacted any day after lunchtime by telephoning 07563 642293.

Macmillan Cancer Support improves the lives of people affected by cancer, providing practical, medical, emotional and financial support. Working alongside people affected by cancer, the charity endeavours to improve cancer care. One in three of us will get cancer and two million are living with it. For more information visit www.macmillan.org.uk or freephone 0808 808 00 00.