Physiotherapist’s tribute highlights incredible support from Great North Run heroes

7 OCTOBER 2025

York & Scarborough Hospitals Charity is celebrating the efforts of its 2025 Great North Run team, who together raised an incredible £16,000 to support wards and departments across York and Scarborough Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust.

Among the runners was Physiotherapist Rachel Wintie, who led ‘Team Maggy’ in this year’s race, running in memory of her beloved mum and raising over £2,000 for the Haematology Department at York Hospital.

Rachel said:

“It was an incredible experience.  From the buzz at the start line to the support from the crowds, the atmosphere was amazing. Every step was for my mum and the team who cared for her. It’s challenging but so rewarding, I’d recommend it to anyone.”

Rachel was one of 32 runners, hospital staff and community supporters, who took on the 13.1-mile challenge from Newcastle to South Shields.

Rachel Brook, Head of York & Scarborough Hospitals Charity, thanked everyone who ran for the charity and raised funds.  Her son, student Freddie Brook, took on an extra challenge by running in an inflatable dinosaur suit.

She said:

“A huge thank you to everyone who participated, and congratulations to all who ran. It was a fantastic day! If Rachel or Freddie have inspired you and you’d like to run for us next year, please get in touch. By doing so, you’ll be supporting some very worthwhile causes across our hospitals.”

Since its inception in 1981, the Great North Run has united 60,000 runners annually in a celebration of fitness, fundraising, and community.

If you have been inspired by this year’s runners, you can register your interest to take part in next year’s Great North Run for York & Scarborough Hospitals Charity here