Stef Fitch and Sunny, Bright Charity’s mascot

A healthcare assistant from an Ashington GP practice is preparing to push herself to the limit by taking on a gruelling 100-mile ultramarathon in aid of Bright Northumbria Healthcare Charity.

Stef Fitch, who works as a healthcare assistant at NPC Lintonville in Ashington, will take part in the Pilgrims’ Ultra 100 Mile challenge. The Pilgrim’s Ultra is an endurance event that follows the full length of St Oswald’s Way through some of Northumberland’s most spectacular coastal and countryside scenery. The route begins on Holy Island and takes runners across beaches, valleys and hills before finishing at Chollerford.

Stef is running the challenge in support of Bright Charity. Bright is the official charity of Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust. It supports hospitals and community services across Northumberland and North Tyneside, funding projects that go beyond NHS provision. Donations help provide enhanced facilities for patients and their families, enhance patient experiences and support staff wellbeing across the trust.

Stef hopes her fundraising efforts will help the charity continue its work while inspiring others to challenge themselves and support local causes.

Stef said:
“After completing a 30-mile run and then a 70-mile run, I wanted to challenge myself even further while raising money for a worthy cause. Bright does incredible work across Northumbria Healthcare and makes a real difference to patients and staff.

“In my role, I regularly speak to patients about the benefits of maintaining a healthy lifestyle through diet and exercise. Discovering running has had a huge positive impact on my own wellbeing. Running isn’t about completing an ultramarathon; it’s about finding something that works for you. Whether it’s a walk around the estate, a jog in the park or training for a big challenge, getting outside, getting active and taking that first step can make a real difference.”

Gemma Barrington, fundraising manager at Bright Charity, praised Stef for taking on the demanding challenge:

“We are incredibly grateful to Stef for taking on such an ambitious challenge in support of Bright Charity. Completing a 100-mile ultramarathon requires remarkable dedication, and we are so proud that she has chosen to use this achievement to raise funds for our charity.

“The money Stef raises will help us continue funding projects that make a real difference across Northumbria Healthcare, supporting patients, families and staff. Fundraisers like Stef are at the heart of what we do, and we wish her the very best of luck as she takes on this inspiring challenge.”

Anyone wishing to support Stef’s fundraising efforts can find out more on her JustGiving page and follow her training journey on Instagram at @this_healthcare_runs.

For more information about Bright Charity and the work they do to support Northumbria Healthcare, visit the Bright website.