'Jarra Jingle' festive fancy dress run sees athletes giving boost to Hebburn Helps food bank

The run, called “The Jarra Jingle,” took place around the two towns. The 23 athletes were dressed in seasonally silly costumes to collect food and toiletries, as well as cash donations for Hebburn Helps, a community foodbank based in Coleridge Square in Hebburn.

The 4.5-mile course started at Monkton Stadium, heading along to Mill Lane in Hebburn, then back to Bede Burn Road in Jarrow before finally returning to the stadium.

The runners were socially distanced and followed the Covid guidelines as set out by England Athletics.

The total cash amount raised is yet to be finalised, but around 30 bags were filled with food and other necessities.

The not-very competitive run was the idea of Alex Sneddon, who is a member of the club’s senior women’s team. Those taking on the course donated food and toiletries. Other members of the club made cash donations to the charity.

Coach at the club, Michael McNally said: “It has been a tough year for everyone which makes the generosity of our club members so poignant.

“So many people are struggling this Christmas and we decided to support Hebburn Helps; an organisation we have huge respect for.”

The Hebburn Helps charity has been particularly active since the pandemic took hold and continues to welcome donations and support to help the community.

For more information on Hebburn Helps, visit www.hebburnhelps.co.uk.

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