Sunderland dad set to run 12th half marathon in 12 weeks on behalf of a North East dementia charity

Grant Lawson from Ashbrooke is set to run his 12th half marathan in 12 weekends when he takes part in the Sunderland Half Marathon on Sunday, June 20.

The 48-year-old is running with his friend John Ralph, who is travelling up from Kent, on behalf of the North East Dementia Care – becoming the first pair to run for the charity.

In an effort to raise money for the charity, Grant set up an online fundraiser which has so far reached over £1,500.

The business manager has spoken of his surprise at the amount of support that he has received so far and revealed how he got into running.

He said: “I basically just began in lockdown, I think everyone has had enough stress over the past year to last a lifetime so when I’m running, before I know it, I’ve travelled two or three miles and it gives me a clear head.

"For the last 11 weekends, I’ve ran a half marathon so this one will be my 12th and I’m really looking forward to it.

"Sandra has done a brilliant job at the charity so the amount of support that I’ve received is unbelievable.

"I only expected a few donations from family and friends as times are tough for everyone but as always, people in the North East have been willing to support worthy causes.”

North East Dementia Care was set up by Sandra Falkner on the back of support from the Alzheimer's Society being cut from Sunderland in 2019.

Sandra has revealed how difficult the last year has been for the charity and how much the efforts of Grant and John will mean to them.

She commented: “It has been a nightmare, we’ve been open and closed so it has been difficult for everyone involved with us, especially the carers.

"Hopefully now it will be onwards and upwards and this is a big lift for us, not just the money raised but it lets people know that we are here.

"It will be great for our centre and all the money raised will be staying in Sunderland.”

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