With just 9 days to go until the Great North Run, today we're proud to share Matthew, Tyrone and Andrew's story...
In June 2025, Matthew's dad, Colin Bell, passed away following a year-long battle with pancreatic cancer.
During his final days, Colin received care at Willow Burn Hospice. The support, compassion and dignity shown to Colin and his family made a lasting impact during an incredibly difficult time.
Colin was passionate about running and loved nothing more than putting on his trainers and heading out for a run. Having completed the Great North Run several times, he believed the event showcased the North East and its people at their very best.
To honour Colin's memory and give back to the hospice that cared for him, Matthew, alongside family members Tyrone and Andrew, will take on the Great North Run on 13 September 2026.
By raising funds for Willow Burn Hospice, they hope to help ensure other families can continue to receive the same exceptional care and support that meant so much to theirs.
"The care Dad and our family received from Willow Burn was outstanding. Running the Great North Run in his memory feels like the perfect way to celebrate his love of running while supporting a cause that will always be close to our hearts."
We wish Matthew, Tyrone and Andrew the very best of luck and thank them for supporting Willow Burn Hospice.
If you would like to support the lads' fundraising efforts, you can donate or send messages of support here: Matthew Bell is fundraising for Willow Burn Hospice
