Still time to sign up for the BIG 3k

Taking place as part of the Run Festival weekend (Saturday 7 and Sunday 8 May), the 3K gives runners of all abilities the chance to get involved in a large-scale running event.

Among the runners signed up for this year is the Hitcham family from Penshaw. Parents Donna and Stuart will be taking part with children Charlie (8), Chloe (5) and Erica (5).

This will be their first BIG 3K, although the family enjoys weekly runs together.

Donna Hitcham said: "It was our son, Charlie's idea to take part because the children have taken up running over the last couple of years. He was keen to take part in one of the events and the 3K seemed like the perfect activity that we could all complete as a family.

"We're really looking forward to taking part and enjoying the atmosphere - there's even a bit of healthy competition between us!"

The Hitchams will be running the 3km race to raise money for the Mayor's charities; The Special Lioness and Hug in a Bag.

The Special Lioness is a Sunderland-based charity started in 2020 that supports families with disabled children, and Hug in a Bag was founded in Sunderland in 2006, providing information and gift packs to people diagnosed with breast cancer.

Donna explained: "We have done some fundraising for the Mayor's charities before, I like being able to support smaller charities who make a big difference on a local level, especially after so many charities have been hit hard over the last two years when they haven't been able to host events to raise money. We really wanted to support charities close to home."

Mayor of Sunderland, Councillor Harry Trueman, said: "I am so pleased to see the Hitcham family raising money for the two chosen Mayor's charities. These charities are doing great work in and around Sunderland, and I know they will gratefully receive the money raised."

The Active Sunderland BIG 3K Run will take place on Sunday 8 May 2022 at 9am. Starting at Keel Square, it takes in parts of the closed road routes of the Sunderland City 10K and Half Marathon.

The 3K route offers a great way to get involved and enjoy the buzzing atmosphere of the city runs for families or beginner runners.

Participants have until midnight on Thursday 5 May to register for any of the city runs.

Entry includes chip timing and a bespoke event t-shirt and medal.

For more information on the BIG 3k or to register for the event, visit https://www.mysunderland.co.uk/article/20420/Active-Sunderland-BIG-3K-Run