Ashleigh to tackle Great North Run for hospital

Ashleigh Grailey will join around 55,000 competitors at the start line of the Great North Run in Newcastle on September 15.

The 22-year-old has taken on the challenge to thank medics at Great Ormond Street Hospital in London who recently operated on her cousin’s 20 month-old daughter.

Ashleigh said: “Alicia has just had surgery at Great Ormond Street.

“The doctors round here couldn’t work out what was wrong and wouldn’t operate, but the team at Great Ormond Street did.

“They were fab. They’ve really looked after her.”

The run will be Ashleigh’s first half marathon, but colleagues at Dewsbury Sports Centre are determined to help her go the distance.

Ashleigh, who lives in Huddersfield, said: “I’ve been doing a little but of running with the park runs in the past few months.

“It’s been so far so good. I’m giving it everything I’ve got at the moment.

“I’ve joined the Stadium Runners in Huddersfield and I’ve got the backing of the team here at the sports centre.

“They’ve done me a training plan and they’ve been there for any advice I need.”

Ashleigh hopes to raise at least £375 for the hospital, and has already collected £195.

Visit http://www.justgiving.com/Ashleigh-Grailey to pledge sponsorship.