Charity champions urged to step out for Sports Relief Mile in South Shields

Scores of residents put their best forward at previous Sports Relief extravaganza in South Tyneside.

The Sainsbury's Sports Relief Mile is back under starting orders at The Leas, South Shields, on Sunday - and runners can still lace up their boots and get on the fundraising trail.

Sprinters and willing walkers choosing to complete the challenge over one, three or six miles will take in the sights of the borough’s stunning coastline and the world famous Great North Run finish from 11am until 1pm.

Every year, thousands of people across the UK step out to take part in Sports Relief Miles.

The money raised through sponsorship is spent by Comic Relief to support people living incredibly tough lives both in the UK and in some of the world’s poorest countries.

The event is being organised by South Tyneside Council’s Sports Development Team with hundreds of participant’s of all ages already signed up to take part and many more expected to show their support on the day.

People can sign up to join the hundreds of entrant at the click of a mouse.

Councillor Alan Kerr, Deputy Leader of South Tyneside Council with responsibility for Culture and Leisure, said: “We would encourage people who want to take part to sign up online via the Sport Relief website or willing runners, walkers or sprinters can also register to do the run on the day.

"This year will be the sixth time for South Tyneside to host the Sainsbury’s Sport Relief Mile. Once again, it is a great honour.

“The run gives everyone a real opportunity to join forces with thousands of people from across the country to help Comic Relief raise a life-changing amount of money to transform lives forever. From little ones with their mums and dads, to runners looking to beat their personal best, there’s something for everyone on the big day – whether you do one, three or six miles.

“We hope to see hundreds of people showing their support this weekend for Sport Relief by entering this incredible event in South Tyneside.”

The national Sport Relief Games is taking place this weekend, from Friday, March 18 to Sunday 20 March, with three whole days of energy, entertainment and events.

People can enter the Sport Relief event in South Shields by visiting www.sportrelief.com Entrants can also register on the day.

For more information about the South Tyneside event, contact Doug Worley, Sport and Leisure Programme Officer at South Tyneside Council, on 424 7998.