This year’s Great North Run LDUK Team will join over 60,000 runners tackling the 13.1 mile route from Newcastle to South Shields on Saturday 7th September 2025. Not long now!
We are so grateful to Jessica McHugh, ‘Renegade Toni’, Hannah Eaton, Rebecca Kirk and Lucy Ellison for taking on this fantastic challenge to help make a difference for Lyme disease patients. Known for it’s wonderful atmosphere and warm Geordie welcome, we’re sure the race be an amazing experience our runners will never forget!
Read more about our team below and why they have chosen to race and offer their support. Go Team LDUK!
Jessica McHugh
“I’m so grateful to be running the Great North Run for Lyme Disease UK. It is so important to raise awareness for this disease as symptoms often go unnoticed and may overlap with other conditions.
As I work in the agricultural industry I have witnessed first-hand how debilitating this disease can be for those that suffer with it.
By taking part in the half marathon for Lyme Disease UK I hope to help raise funds for vital research about the disease and hopefully advance treatment and awareness.”
Jessica McHugh
‘Renegade Toni’
Toni will be taking on her second ever half marathon at the Great North Run this year. She’s been inspired by the powerful work of artist Ren, who has used his platform to shine a light on the realities of Lyme disease and the lack of medical support many face.
“I really want to continue to raise awareness as well as it is so unknown by the general public.”
“Lyme often goes undiagnosed for years due to GPs lack of knowledge and experience with it, so many people are left suffering or even worse, misdiagnosed…”
‘Renegade Toni’
Hannah Eaton
After unfortunately having to defer from last year’s race, Hannah is all set to tackle the challenge this year. We’re excited to have you back Hannah!
“A close friend contracted Lyme while shearing sheep at the age of 21 when he was bitten by a tick. After many months of no diagnosis through a lack of awareness, Dan tested positive which has impacted his life massively.
I want to raise awareness around the disease to help other people who may be showing symptoms. Dan has done so much for raising awareness around Lyme, and with your donations we can continue to help with the research and awareness of Lyme disease.”
Hannah Eaton
Rebecca Kirk
“I’m running the Great North Run to support Lyme Disease UK. Lyme disease is often misunderstood and misdiagnosed, leaving many to suffer in silence without the support or treatment they need.
By taking on this challenge, I hope to raise awareness, fund vital research, and help provide better care for those affected. Every step I take is for the individuals and families impacted by this debilitating illness.”
Rebecca Kirk
Lucy Ellison
“I’m running this half marathon to raise awareness for Lyme disease because living in the beautiful but rural countryside of North Yorkshire, I’ve seen first-hand how easy it is to overlook the dangers that come with being close to nature.
Ticks are common in areas like ours, and Lyme disease often goes undiagnosed or misunderstood – even though it can have life-altering effects. By running, I’m hoping to spread awareness, support those affected, and encourage more conversations around prevention and early detection in communities like mine.”
Lucy Ellison