great north run 2026
Our 2026 Team
This year’s fundraising running team brings together actors, musicians and supporters with strong links to the region including two familiar faces from ITV’s Vera, Louis Healy and Riley Jones. They're joined by musician Ben Harwood, plus Roselle Oberholzer, Elaine Small, Freddie Miles, Dan Irwin, Ben Griffin and Wayne Abbott, all running to raise money for young North East talent. Their efforts help us provide grants, bursaries and opportunities for emerging talent.
Support the team and follow their fundraising efforts on our Just Giving Campaign here

Anyone Can Fundraise
You don’t need an official charity place to support us this year though, anyone running can create a fundraising page through our JustGiving Campaign and help raise money for the trust. Start or support a page here
Bands on the Run Stage

As part of our Great North Run celebrations, Sunday for Sammy proudly hosts the Bands on the Run Stage, located on the Gateshead side of the Tyne Bridge, entertaining the crowds and keeping the runners motivated as they pass.
It’s a brilliant place to watch the runners as they come across the iconic Tyne Bridge, with our showcase of North East musicians and bands, a great space to soak up the atmosphere with family and friends, and support the runners too. Not forgetting the fabulous view of the Red Arrows as they do their fly past over the Tyne Bridge.
Why it Matters
Every pound raised helps fund training, development and creative opportunities for young performers across acting, music, dance and backstage roles.
Get Involved
You can support Sunday for Sammy at the Great North Run by:
- Sponsoring the team on JustGiving
- Running for us and raising funds on JustGiving
- Cheering runners along the route
- Visiting the Bands on the Run Stage
- Sharing the campaign on your socials
