Quorum Park Duo Tackle 20-Mile Art Trail Run for St Oswald’s Hospice
SSCL colleagues Benjamin Cook and Lee Willis completed a gruelling 20-mile run along the Peter Rabbit 'Tales on the Tyne' art trail on July 29th, raising over £800 for St Oswald’s Hospice - so far.
The challenge marked a major personal milestone for Willis, representing the single furthest distance he has run since taking up the sport last year. He was joined along the route by Cook, an experienced ultra-runner whose endurance expertise helped guide the pair through the 20-mile course.
Braving the Trail for a Vital Cause
The 'Tales on the Tyne' trail, created by St Oswald’s Hospice, features a collection of individually designed Peter Rabbit sculptures positioned across the North East, stretching from the coast to Gosforth. We were lucky enough to be home to a fluffle of 92 Peters while they were designed into the recognisable sculptures they are today.
Events Manager Claire Lusk mentions: “It was inspiring to see Ben and Lee take part in the 20 mile run, it’s a great achievement, and a great way to raise awareness and funds for St Oswald’s Hospice, who we work closely with, not only for the trails, but throughout the year, with a number of campaigns, and events.
We are always proud of the employees of the Quorum Community, and love to share and celebrate everyone’s achievements. This is no exception, and we will be sending a lunch token over to Ben and Lee as a little token of thanks!- It’s the very least we can do!”
Navigating between the large sculptures and various "fluffles" (clusters of smaller rabbit sculptures), the duo aimed to raise awareness for the hospice while encouraging the community to explore the outdoor art trail.
"It was the furthest I’ve run by approximately 16km and the longest time I've spent on my feet," said Lee Willis following the run. "We walked more than I had planned, but had a good laugh with Ben visiting all the sculptures. It was all to raise money for St Oswald's Hospice, a fantastic organisation with great people working for them."
Sopra Steria Shared Services Connected Ltd employees with the ‘Happy Days’ Rabbit Sculpture, which they have sponsored for the trail.
Willis also gave a special nod to event supporters, adding that some of the sculptures has been sponsored by on-site Tenant Sopra Steria Shared Services Connected Ltd and they were "definitely the best," while expressing thanks to Africa Sprigg and Carol Fox for organisational support, and Phil Thorne for providing the time to undertake the challenge.
With over £800 already raised, funds from the run will go directly toward St Oswald's Hospice, helping ensure they can continue offering compassionate, specialist care and family support services across the region.
Members of the public wishing to support the fundraising effort can still contribute via their official fundraising page here.