Chief executive takes on ultramarathon challenge

A North East health sector chief executive is taking on an endurance challenge to raise funds in memory of her late brother.

Dr Nicola Hutchinson, chief executive of Health Innovation North East and North Cumbria, will run the Beyond Newcastle Ultramarathon this month alongside her husband, Sam.

The 55km route follows the River Tyne to Wylam, continues along the River Derwent and finishes at the Swing Bridge.

Nicola is fundraising for the Percy Hedley Foundation, which supported her brother Steven before his death, aged 20.

She has already raised £900, exceeding her initial £300 target.

Nicola, who has also been a trustee of the Foundation for the last three years, said: “I’m determined to cross that finish line to raise money for the Percy Hedley Foundation.

“I’ve seen firsthand how every penny goes straight back into supporting children, young people and adults with disabilities across the North East.

“Steven remains my inspiration for so much in my life, and this is one way that I can continue to support his memory.”

Jeff Breen, head of fundraising at the Percy Hedley Foundation added: “Nicola’s efforts are truly incredible.

“Taking on the Beyond Newcastle Ultramarathon is no small feat and the fact that she’s doing it in honour of her brother while supporting the work of the Foundation makes it even more inspiring.

“Everyone at Percy Hedley is firmly behind her as she takes on this extraordinary challenge to raise sponsorship and awareness of the complex work the charity undertakes.”

The ultramarathon will take place on Saturday, April 25.

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