A MUM of two has swapped the recliner for running shoes after being inspired by an annual charity run.
Amanda Leslie has just signed up again to take part in the St Teresa’s Hospice Santa Run, a Darlington event that last year encouraged her to tackle the Great North Run.
The employer links co-ordinator at Queen Elizabeth Sixth Form College took part in last year’s festive spectacular with her sons Russ, eight and Adam, ten.
“But I was surprised how unfit I felt and it inspired me to start exercising and take part in the Great North Run,” she said.
“I loved the events so much I plan to take part in both every year. When I was younger I was naturally fit but I have taken this for granted. In my 30s I used to go to the gym but with working and having two children my membership was wasted.
“Now I go running every week because I want to sustain my fitness. It is so good for me physically and mentally. It makes me feel fitter and is a great way to de-stress.”
Her new-found love for fitness has also encouraged her children who now play football and rugby.
“We have become much more sporty as a family and it has really got us up off the couch,” she added.
She said St Teresa’s Hospice was a great cause to support and the event was very well organised.
“There’s such a lovely atmosphere that we like to make a day of it,” she said. “It is also a great way of making my boys appreciate what is going on in their local community.”
Now in its third year, the Santa Run will be staged again at West Park Academy, setting off at 11am on December 5.
Runners will be given the option of a 2.5km or 5km route through the school grounds and West Park itself.
St Teresa’s Hospice chief executive Jane Bradshaw said: “The annual run is so much fun and does inspire people throughout the year as well as raise much-needed funds for the hospice.
“We are so grateful to runners like Amanda and her children who support the event year after year and to West Park Academy for hosting us.”
As well as the runs, there will be stalls in the hall, including cakes by Archer’s Catering, tombolas and Christmas games.
Entry is £10 for ages 16+, £5 for ages five-15 and under fives can enter free. Dogs are welcome at £2 per pet.
Entry fee includes a Santa suit, or Santa hat for children, mince pie and hot drink.
