Roma is running Great North Run in memory of her Dad

A well-known March woman is tying up her running shoes and tackling the Great North Run for a cause close to her heart.

Roma O’Neil, who many may know from her years at the George Campbell Leisure Centre, is tackling the half-marathon on September 8 when it is held in Newcastle.

She has been busily training to complete the course and is hoping to raise at least £500 for the British Heart Foundation.

Roma’s inspiration is her late Dad, Roy Hindle, who over 30 years ago from heart problems.

Roy was only 67 at the time of his death from Cardiac Arrhythmia in 1993 – coincidentally the same age as his daughter now.

Roma said: “I have been doing the March Park Run from almost since it began, in fact, I have run nearly 300 over the years – I don’t go every week, but I try to do it as often as I can.

“I have run the Great North Run before and I thought I would have a go again this year and I was lucky enough to get a ballot place, which means every penny I raise will be going to the charity.

“I’m not going to lie it has been hard work training, I have managed 10 miles so far, and I just keep thinking it is a long way to run, but I’m determined to finish it, even if I have to walk some of the way.

“The old body has quite a few aches and pains. I did do the Great North in 2002 and I couldn't walk after that so it's a challenge. Anyone who has seen me running around town will know I am not finding it easy.”

Roma’s Dad was well-known locally as he ran his own haulage business for most of his life, but he was also a title-winning fisherman.

Roy won his section in the All England tournament.

He sadly died from the heart condition, which affects the heartbeat, in his sleep and Roma said: “I wanted to do something in his memory as I am the same age as him. I have set up an enthuse.org page through the British Heart Foundation, which means every penny donated will go to the charity so I would be really grateful if people could support me through that.”