A MAN is hanging up his running shoes after taking part in the Great North Run for the very last time at 70 years old.

Raising more than £1,600 for Saint Catherine’s Hospice, Alan Robinson fancied repeating the challenge after previously running the half-marathon three years ago.

Alan, who lives in Keldholme, near Kirkbymoorside, said: “I have always ran the Great North Run for Saint Catherine’s, but decided to hang up my trainers after celebrating by 70th birthday.

“The last three miles were a struggle, some would say runners block, but the weather was incredibly warm resulting in issues with dehydration.

“Despite this, I finished the Great North Run in two hours and 40 minutes which is a great achievement. My advice to anyone thinking of doing long distance runs would be to prepare thoroughly, build up distance over at least 10 to 12 weeks, buy good running shoes and drink lots of water.”

Saint Catherine’s cares for patients with terminal illnesses both at home and in the hospice adults, as well as supporting their families and friends.

All the hospice services are free of charge to patients and families.

Alan said: “I am of course delighted to have raised so much money for St Catherine’s and grateful to everyone who supported me in achieving this, but sad that such a wonderful organisation

needs to raise so much to provide the excellent services that they do.

“Volunteering for Saint Catherine’s over the years has been an honour, whether it is driving to the day hospice in Malton or making people cups of tea.”

Nicky Grunwell, Ryedale’s area fundraiser for Saint Catherine’s Hospice, said: “Raising £1,600 is a fantastic achievement.

“We are all so proud of Alan and delighted that he has chosen to support us in this way.”

For more information, visit saintcatherines.org.uk