Northumberland woman marks 31st Great North Run after surviving breast cancer

A Northumberland woman is preparing to complete her 31st Great North Run after surviving breast cancer.

Bridie Bennett from Longhoughton ran her first ever Great North Run (GNR) back in 1995 and hasn’t missed a single one since.

Bridie Bennett after completing the Great North Run last year.

placeholder image — Bridie Bennett after completing the Great North Run last year.

Each year, she chooses new charities to support and this time, she has decided to fundraise for HospiceCare North Northumberland, Breast Cancer Now and the Not Forgotten Association, supporting the armed forces community.

As a breast cancer survivor and former RAF nurse of 26 years, Bridie has chosen to support causes close to her heart.

“It's not the accolade of running it for me, it's actually the people that are kindly donating and making a difference,” she said.

“The North East crowd are wonderful and they push you round even when you are struggling. It’s an amazing atmosphere.”

As an extra bit of fun, Bridie will complete the entire half-marathon dressed as a bumble bee, something she has done for the last few years.

“I think I’ve dressed as a bee for the last three years,” she said. “I spend more time figuring up a little outfit than I do about the running sometimes. It gives people a bit of fun as well.”

Bridie will tackle her 31st GNR this Sunday, September 13. So far, she has raised around £580 for her chosen charities and more donations can be made here.