An exiled Geordie now living in Cambridge has pledged to support The People’s Kitchen in Newcastle by embarking on a remarkable journey running the distance between Lands’ End and John O’Groats in stages.
Mick Lazarus is no stranger to fund raising as last year he took on a three-day challenge simulating climbing the height of Everest for local charities.
Mick shares his motivation for this year’s unique challenge, stating, “I’ve always set myself challenges and been keen on doing things for charity. Last year, I took inspiration from the Land’s End to John O’Groats route, and this year, I decided to virtually cover the 874-mile distance by running in my home area.”
Reflecting on his past Everest challenge, Mick explains, “I climbed the height of Everest in Cambridgeshire, one of the flattest counties in the UK. I found a small hill a couple of miles away and continuously climbed it over three days, covering about four or five marathons in total. It was both a physical and mental challenge, especially under the scorching June sun.”
Despite facing recent health challenges, Mick remains committed to making a positive impact. “During a period when I couldn’t train for about a year and a half due to illness, I realised the importance of doing what you want to do. Now, as I recover, I want to contribute to making life better for others.”
Mick’s training for the Land’s End to John O’Groats challenge is underway, with daily runs covering four to five miles. He acknowledges the difficulties of training in adverse weather but emphasises the rewarding feeling it brings.
Choosing to support The People’s Kitchen, based in Newcastle, Mick reveals his connection to the region: “I’m a proud Novocastrian and I moved down here many moons ago. The People’s Kitchen does incredible work supporting vulnerable people in the area, and I want to raise funds to aid their important work.”
People’ Kitchen Trustee Maggie Pavlou said: “Even though Mick is no longer in our region, he is still doing what he can to help us. We wish him well in his epic run and when he virtually runs past Newcastle, we will all be out waving him on. His support is fantastic and we are very grateful.”
To support Mick Lazarus in his Land’s End to John O’Groats challenge and contribute to The People’s Kitchen, donations can be made on his JustGiving page. Updates on Mick’s journey can be found on Instagram (@theGeordiePrancer).