Jarrow grandfather went on the run for seafaring charity

Stewart Temple has taken part in his 18th Great North Run in aid of the Mission to Seafarers based at the Mill Dam in South Shields.

The 88-year-old, from High Street, Jarrow, took up running following the death of his wife Maureen and has taken part in running events ever since.

This year he has competed in the Gateshead 10k and Manchester 10k. 
However, it’s the Great North Run event which holds a special place in his heart and this is the event where he calls on people to sponsor his efforts.

He completed the 13.1 mile run from Newcastle to South Shields in a time of 3 hours and 45 minutes - 12 minutes quicker than the previous year.

Mr Temple, a retired Merchant Navy engineer, said: “I have done the run 19 times now. 18 of them have been raising money for the Mission to Seafarers.

“I’ll be 89 next year and be taking part in my 20th run and I feel great.”

The grandfather added: “I have been running for the past 19 years after my wife Maureen died.

“I had nothing else to do so I just took up running. I’m not a good runner, I just plod along.

“Times don’t matter to me.”

The pensioner raised £507 for the charity which provides spiritual and physical support for seafarers across the world.

Mr Temple said: “Everyone thought the Mission was closed but it’s not.

“It’s very much open and supporting the seafarers coming to the area.”

The home of the charity underwent a huge revamp after it was hit by a flood and re-opened it’s doors in 2012, thanks to support from Isos Housing - which was redeveloping the Holborn House complex where the Mission is based.

The historic venue was kitted out with a new kitchen, toilet and flooring. All lights were replaced and extensive rewiring carried out.

The money raised by Mr Temple will be used to continue the work of the Mission.