A Sheffield nursing student has overcome her back injury to run for Bluebell Wood. 

Katie Pearce, who has just started studying adult nursing at Sheffield Hallam University, raised £403 by completing the Great North Run, the biggest half marathon in the world. 

The former leisure centre lifeguard completed the 13.1 mile course around Newcastle-upon-Tyne in just over two hours and 24 minutes. 

Katie said: “I decided to follow in my dad’s footsteps as he ran for Bluebell Wood in 2017 and it is a fantastic charity. Knowing that my fundraising will support families going through incredibly hard times was enough motivation for me to put on my trainers and get out there. 

“This was my second half marathon, although I couldn’t train as much as I would have liked to due to a back injury. It was a tough race for me but I managed to keep running with my dad, who kept me going, along with thinking of everyone we would help by fundraising. 

“The race was absolutely amazing. All the way round there were bands playing live music, and as it was a hot day, people had hoses attached from their houses to cool people down, as well as ice lollies and orange slices. My favourite part of the race was crossing the finish line when the Red Arrows were performing their display.” 

Gail Parkin, Community Fundraiser, Bluebell Wood: “We’d like to say congratulations and thank you to Katie and all the runners who took on the Great North Run for Bluebell Wood. Every penny they have raised will make a big difference and help families across our region to make special memories.”

Find ways you can get active and raise valuable funds for the families Bluebell Wood supports here.