A Teesside family of four are putting their best foot forward in a fundraising mission for The Lewy Body Society. 

The Beckett family, mum Sarah, dad Clive and siblings Hannah and Alfie, will all be taking on the challenge of the Great North Run after Sarah’s dad was diagnosed with Lewy body dementia back in 2022. 

Sarah says they have been inspired by daughter Hannah, who is the only one to have completed the run previously, raising £800 on her own last year.

This time as a family, they hope to raise over £1000, in the epic challenge of the largest half marathon (13.1 miles) in the world, taking place annually in North East England – this year on September 8.

Sarah said: “Lewy body dementia is unfortunately something which people just haven’t heard of. It’s time for people to hear about it. We didn’t know about it until my dad was diagnosed.

“Watching Hannah last time was so inspiring and I just thought, I am going to give it a go. Once I said I was going to do it, Clive and Alfie stepped up and signed up for it too!

“We will get our vests on and spread that awareness, by running… walking… even staggering!”

Hannah added: “When we first connected with The Lewy Body Society, it was comforting to see other families’ experiences (with the condition) and what they are going through. 

“In terms of running, we are all at different abilities but we are training and we will all do our best for a great cause.”

Dad and son Clive and Alfie admitted that training has been “tough” and a bit of a “shock” – but that they’re looking forward to the crowds cheering them on throughout the race.

Jacqui Cannon, CEO of The Lewy Body Society, said: “The Beckett’s fundraising efforts are absolutely inspirational. We would like to express our gratitude and wish them good luck!”

Find out more the Lewy Body Society here: https://www.lewybody.org/