NHS director prepares for Great North Run

An NHS director is preparing to undertake the gruelling Great North Run in aid of charity.  

Gerry Taylor, who is in charged of public health at NHS Luton, is hoping to raise money for Arthritis Research after her friend Leo developed the condition.

Ms Taylor, who will also be running with her friend Andrea, said: "Leo ran the GNR a few years ago and it seems only fitting to emulate her now. I had planned to do it with her, but family illness prevented me at the time. I ran the Great South Run instead and really enjoyed running by the sea in Portsmouth, but it's only a meagre ten miles, not quite a half marathon.

"When Andrea suggested the GNR this year I jumped at the chance, especially as we are both from Newcastle, giving us an added incentive."

Arthritis affects 350,000 people in the UK and results in stiff and painful joints which make movement difficult.  

There is no cure and more research is necessary to help Arthritis Research take the pain away and keep people with arthritis active.

Anyone who would like to sponsor Gerry visit www.justgiving.com/Gerry-M-Taylor