Great North runners bridge the gap for charity

Two North East runners are preparing to carry a 12-foot replica of the Tyne Bridge around the Great North Run for a fifth time to raise money for the Cystic Fibrosis Trust.

Derick Jackson and Graham Ravenhall have become a familiar sight at the annual event, completing the 13.1-mile route with their homemade model, which even features a seven-strong Red Arrows flypast.

Originally intended as a one-off fundraising project, the replica has evolved over the years as the pair continue their efforts on behalf of Team Ewan.

The group was established after Graham’s nephew Ewan, now eight, was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis and has since raised more than £80,000 for the Cystic Fibrosis Trust through a range of activities.

Derick said: “Like all of the best ideas it started over a quick discussion in our local, and several weekends later we had a scale model Tyne Bridge complete with Red Arrows flying over.”

This year, Derick and Graham have expanded their fundraising with a ‘Place on the Bridge’ initiative, allowing individuals and businesses to create a minifigure to be added to the model.

They will join miniature versions of well-known North East figures already featured on the bridge, including Ant and Dec, Sara Davies and North East mayor Kim McGuinness, alongside Great North Run founder Sir Brendan Foster and mascot Tyney.

The replica has also been recognised through The Bridge Campaign, which celebrates the cultural significance of the Tyne Bridge and its place in North East life.

Alongside fundraising, Derick and Graham use the project to raise awareness of cystic fibrosis and share Team Ewan’s story with runners and spectators.

What began as a creative tribute to one of the region’s most famous landmarks has now become an annual symbol of North East community spirit at the Great North Run.

Graham added: “The Place on the Bridge has grown legs over the last couple of years and it has been great to see complete strangers send us donations and minifigures to add to our model – we’re looking forward to seeing how it develops but also conscious of adding too much weight! 

“There’s more information on our socials for anyone wanting to take part.”

To follow Derick and Graham’s story, follow them on Instagram @gnrtynebridge and Facebook at GNR Tyne Bridge.

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