A SOUTH Tyneside charity champion’s latest fundraising feat was far from run of the mill.
Tony ‘The Fridge’ Phoenix-Morrison, from Hebburn, hit the headlines after completing a cool 30 marathons in as many days with a fridge strapped to his back in aid of the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation last year.
And he’s showing no signs of ditching his domestic appliance just yet, after embarking on a gruelling non-stop 12-hour treadmill run yesterday, to raise funds for Lee Mercer, from Cramlington, who has spent four months in hospital after suffering a serious head injury in a freak accident while playing football.
The big-hearted fundraiser was one of more than 100 people taking part in the Miles for Mercer event at New Life and Soul Fitness Centre in Cramlington, from 6am to 6pm.
Those who took part could either put their best foot forward for a stint on the treadmill or put their pedal to the mettle on the fitness bike.
Super-fit Tony – accompanied by his favourite fridge – and fellow fundraiser Tony Holland both put their stamina to the test for 12 straight hours, with others booking in for shorter periods to help raise funds for Mr Mercer’s ongoing recovery.
Mr Phoenix-Morrison said: “I’ve been taking it slow and steady, it’s a different challenge for me. It’s a brilliant atmosphere here and is for a great cause. The gym is called the Life and Soul and it couldn’t be better named. It’s also been a great warm-up for my 24-hour challenge next month.”
Nicola Sail, who runs the gym, said: “We’ve had lots of support from all over, with pubs and businesses getting involved.
“Lee Mercer was playing football when he went for a tackle and he fell and hurt his head. He was taken to the Royal Victoria Infirmary in Newcastle and went into a coma.
“He will require a lot of rehabilitation and we are hoping to raise thousands for his recovery. He’s a local lad and well known. A lot of his friends come here and we wanted to help.”
Mr Phoenix-Morrison’s next challenge will see him take on a 24-hour, 100-mile marathon around Newcastle Quayside – with an even larger fridge on his back – on Friday, April 12.
For more details on the Miles to Mercer fundraiser, and to donate, call the fitness centre on 01670 738 438.
Twitter@shieldsgazchris