Local Hero Runs 812 Miles for Age UK Sunderland

Local Hero Runs 812 Miles for Age UK Sunderland

Local supply chain analyst Lee Carruthers is lacing up his running shoes for an extraordinary feat of endurance this summer: running a marathon every single day throughout August in support of Age UK Sunderland.

Lee, who turns 50 during the challenge, will begin his first 26.2-mile run on July 31st and continue every day until August 30^th when he will have completed an astonishing 812.2 miles in total.

The Houghton-le-Spring resident, originally from Washington, is hoping to raise £31,000 to help Age UK Sunderland continue its vital work supporting vulnerable older people across the city.

“I’ve done big running challenges before, 20 marathons in 2020 and 52 across 2022, but this will be my biggest yet,” said Lee. “Since my Grandma passed away in 2019, I’ve fundraised in her memory, but this time I wanted the money to help people closer to home. When a colleague suggested Age UK Sunderland, I looked into their work and was blown away.”

Tracy Collins, Chief Executive of Age UK Sunderland, said: “We’re absolutely amazed by Lee’s dedication and generosity. Taking on 31 marathons in 31 days is an extraordinary challenge, and we’re so grateful he’s chosen to support older people in Sunderland. His efforts will make a real and lasting difference to the lives of some of the most vulnerable members of our community.”

Lee’s ambitious itinerary includes running local routes around the City, commuting on foot to his workplace at Crane Authentication in Washington, five appearances at Herrington Parkrun, and participation in an organised marathon event hosted by Saturn Runners in Durham. He’s also hoping to complete a few laps around a local athletics track.

“The older population are often the most overlooked and vulnerable in our communities. Supporting Age UK Sunderland is my way of helping to change that. Being older and lonely is one of my biggest fears, and the work this charity does by keeping older people connected, cared for, and independent, is something we should all get behind.”

Friends and family are proud of Lee’s determination, though a few worry he may be “off his rocker.” But Lee is focused on the impact his challenge could have.

“If I can hit my target, it could make a real difference to so many lives,” he said. “That would mean the world.”

You can follow Lee’s journey and donate via his JustGiving page:

www.justgiving.com/page/lee-carruthers-9

Or follow him on Instagram: @31marathons31days2025