North East business leader to run ultramarathon in tribute to her late brother

A chief executive is taking on a 55km challenge to raise funds for the charity that supported her brother.

Dr Nicola Hutchinson, chief executive of Health Innovation North East and North Cumbria will be taking part in the Beyond Newcastle Ultramarathon this month.

The 34-mile route will see Nicola follow the River Tyne to Wylam, continue along the River Derwent, pass through Chopwell Woods and finish at the Swing Bridge.

Nicola’s brother Steven was supported by North East disability charity the Percy Hedley Foundation in the 1990’s before he sadly passed away in 1996 aged 20.

Nicola has also been a trustee of the Foundation for the last three years. She 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.”

Nicola has already fundraised £900, well beyond her initial £300 goal.

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 Beyond Newcastle Ultramarathon will take place on Saturday 25th April.