A Newcastle man is preparing to cover 1,000 miles across the UK in 17 days to help children and families in the North East have a brighter Christmas.
Chris Gatrell's Chris Runs Christmas challenge will take him from Land's End to John O'Groats and then back south to Newcastle. He is aiming to raise £20,000 for Cash for Kids North East.
The campaign describes the challenge as running, walking and, if necessary, crawling across the route. Chris is inviting local people and businesses to help by supporting the fundraiser, sharing the challenge or offering prizes for a fundraising raffle.
Community finish in Newcastle
The final day is planned for Saturday 28 November 2026, with three opportunities for supporters to join in or cheer Chris home.
- 1pm: the final run sets off from Newcastle Train Station towards Great Park, covering roughly 12km. People can join all or part of the route, or support from the sidelines.
- 2.30pm: the Final Mile starts and finishes at Great Park Community Centre, with participants invited to run or walk around the local community.
- 3pm to 5pm: the Big Finish celebration takes place at Great Park Community Centre, with music, food vans, raffles and fundraising stalls.
The community centre is on Roseden Way, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE13 9BD. The finish events are free, with Eventbrite registration available through the campaign website to help organisers plan attendance.
Supporting the challenge
Chris says money raised will support Cash for Kids North East and stay in the area to help local children and families. Businesses can also contact the campaign about donating a product or service for its raffle.
Full event details and free registration links are available on the Chris Runs Christmas website. Donations can be made through Chris Gatrell's official Cash for Kids fundraising page.