Berwick Cancer Cars gears up for record-breaking attempt in 2027

After a record breaking year raising over £32,000, the Great North Run Team of Berwick Cancer Cars are getting ready for 2027.

This year, over 50 runners took on the challenge of running the biggest Half Marathon in the world, The Great North Run. As always, the support from the local community has been incredible. Whether that be coming out to support on the group training runs leading up to the big day or the very generous donations.

Berwick Cancer Cars is a local charity that ensures that members of the community can reach crucial appointments and treatments and offering therapies to allow an opportunity for recuperation. This year alone, the cars have travelled 110,152 miles taking 187 of our friends, loved ones, and family to their appointments.

After 11 years at the helm, Andrew Smith has decided to take a step back from the day to day running of the team. He will not be disappearing however, and will be on the start line. We would all like to thank Andrew for his service throughout the years. Starting in 2015 with a group of 7 local runners, this quickly increased to teams covering all of the events such as The Great North Run, Junior and Mini Great North Run, and The Great North 5k and 10k. Raising over £100,00 and creating a community that chooses to lace up their shoes and run for us each year.

Just over a month since the big day, thoughts have already switched to next year however. Daniel Flannigan who has stepped in to the role of team coordinator noted "2026 was a record year for us which is amazing. However, records are only there to be broken and we are up for the challenge. It doesn't matter if you are a seasoned pro, never ran before, or will walk the route. All that matters is the reason behind doing it. Unfortunately we have all been touched by cancer. That could be a family or friend or have suffered personally. Every penny raised goes towards supporting people in our local area who are going through one of the toughest experiences. A half marathon is a doddle in comparison! As someone who wouldn't run a mile if I had a gun to my head, I can promise that you will be among the most supportive group. There will be moment when you think 'why have I done this?' but there will be people beside you to pick you up and keep you going. Plus, raising money for a charity and getting fitter: it's a win win.'

If you would like to run as part of the 2027 Cancer Cars Great North Run team, please register your interest by going to: https://berwickcancersupport.co.uk/great-north-run-2027-registration-of-interest.