Rugby playing dad sets himself series of tough sporting challenges after putting in the miles during lockdown

Graham Erickson, from Westoe in South Shields, has already completed 280km in 28 days through the Great North Run series, is entering the last section of his 485km Great North Run Solo task, with preparations underway to run the Virtual Great North Run on Sunday, September 13.

He will take on the Yorkshire Three Peaks in October, when he and friends will tackle Pen-y-Ghent, Whernside, and Ingleborough in 12 hours or under.

All the cash he raises – more than £2,300 so far – will be gifted to the Toby Henderson Trust and Autism Hub in Gordon Street in Chichester, with more than £5,000 raised for it over the years by the 36-year-old.

The weight loss to under 20 stone are helping him get fit ready to play for South Shields Rugby Club, where he plays back row and captains its second team.

It has also helped him spend time with his daughter Nicole, as they often run together, with the 12-year-old completing the junior version of the solo run.

Graham, head of IT repairs at NE Computer Support in Westoe Road who has been supported through his efforts by partner Stacey Bulmer, 31, said: “I came back into the game and I’d gained a bit of weight, so I thought I'd better lose some and get a bit fitter and I’ve lost five stone since Christmas.

"To be honest, I’m not a runner, but I've come to really enjoy it and it’s been a real benefit during the lockdown.

"It’s mainly been friends who have donated and that’s what’s really kept me going, they have been so generous and it’s been heartwarming to see.”

He has also been backed by a host of businesses, including Rhys Iles of Powerhouse Gym, KLR Heating and Plumbing, run by his brother Andrew, 34, and by Geoff Thompson, chairman of South Shields Football Club.

His donations page can be found via www.justgiving.com/grahamgnr2020 with updates on his progress posted on his Instagram page https://www.instagram.com/erraz84/.

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