[ Home ] [ Up ] [ Diabetes ] [ Fundraising ] [ Running record ] [ Fundraisers ]

18th May 7131 miles run £200,936 raised

16-12-7 The big chill! It has been a long time since it was so consistently cold for so many days. It has been a week with frost constantly on the ground so the runs have been, let's say, fresh. After all the optimism of the last entry it was actually a full week before I got any more running in. Didn't finish work on the Monday night until too late. Tuesday night was on call. Then the rest of the week was taken up by having to attend the APLS (Advanced Paediatric Life Support) course. This is essential training for managing life threatening paediatric emergencies and involves lots of lectures, practice scenarios and then finally exams. It was very early starts and late finishes on each day, and the whole thing was really exhausting anyway. 

Its kind of strange, even though I often have to resuscitate babies and young children, you are made to run through 'scenarios' where you are give a dummy and a hypothetical situation. You are then supposed to behave as if it was the real thing, and are assessed on your performance. An extra twist to the proceedings is that I had sort of trained some of the instructors when they were junior doctors, many years ago.

Then on the Saturday it was off to Newcastle to do the Christmas shopping, nothing like a bit of last minute panic, followed by a trip up the dales to Eastgate to attend a presentation night for the Weardale and District Motor Club who made a very nice donation to the appeal. The upshot is that the first opportunity for a run didn't come until the Sunday. After all the rain, and before the big freeze it was too damp for the usual routes so headed out on the roads. Cold but bearable and periods of sunshine made for a good run. Decided to try something different and after the usual route up to the top of Toft-hill, the hill is a pretty considerable one if running from the Witton area, went across on the old rail route to Ranshaw and then up into Evenwood, before returning via West Auckland. A lot of very steep hills and for days afterwards my legs felt very stiff.

Next run at least started in the day time, on the Wednesday afternoon. Felt a bit guilty as should have been attending an education meeting, but knowing that Friday was going to be difficult went for the run. Too late for a trail so hit the roads up to Westerton. Of course the frost was really hard by this stage so a challenge to keep the hands warm. Same applied to a quick run around Durham City on the Friday lunchtime.

Finally today. Knew it was going to be cold, so had double gloves and a gilet. OK on the way out towards Brandon, with a breeze behind me, but returning into the wind must have been a wind chill factor of -5 or more. Even with double gloves and extra layers was feeling very cold by the end of the 18 miles. Of course when its cold you try to run a bit faster to keep warm, so towards the end felt a bit queasy with the effort of some of the hills. All in all a good week. Next week is also going to be very cold, so we'll see what happens.

2-12-7 It has to be admitted that the weather forecasts these days are phenomenally accurate. For the first run in December had considered a long 20 plus miles again but the weather forecast was for cold and rain, especially later in the morning. So it seemed prudent to stay on the roads and perhaps not try so far. Even took a rain cover with me. Sure enough just a mile away from home the rain, always present as a drizzle from the start became so heavy that I needed the rain coat. Had to be satisfied with a half marathon instead, but tomorrows forecast is for clear weather. By not pushing it so hard today should be able to manage a run tomorrow as well. 

Just as well as there don't look to be any other opportunities this week!

28-11-7 Another busy week saw me in Coventry at a meeting for children's diabetes specialist doctors acting as a facilitator for an insulin pump workshop. It is really good to know that there are more and more children starting on insulin pumps around the country as people become more aware of how well they work. Managed to get in a run on the morning of the conference. The hotel was just off the M6 and the roads busy, so not the most pleasant of runs but then again it wasn't raining too hard! Managed a couple of other runs, again rather wet coming back from Durham after a hard weekend on call. Every night had been called into the hospital for emergencies. So the run back from Durham was on the back of sleep deprivation and it really made a surprising difference to how difficult it was. 

On Wednesday had a rare opportunity for a mid-week daylight run to Spennymoor. Had booked to do clinics all day but the usual madness of the NHS bureaucracy defeated all my attempts at doing more work. Even though it is my time that is most difficult to organise and having squeezed an extra session you'd have thought the support staff would have been pleased. No, not at all. They needed to have funding for the extra clinic even though no extra staff were needed, and the room was free. The current NHS is based on a 'we can't do that' mentality instead of 'let's do it and sort out the issues as they arise'. Still mustn't grumble because it did let me have a run out.

18-11-7 Well world diabetes day turned out to be a lot of fun. Paul Peter and the Adult Diabetes Team from Bishop Auckland started first thing in the morning, screening people for diabetes and high blood pressure. Armed with a lot of nerve and a megaphone they certainly spread the word. I managed to join them for the afternoon, but it was certainly the diabetes Teams day. We stopped off at Morrison's in Bishop Auckland, Darlington Memorial and finally the Asda in Spennymoor. The bus certainly grabbed people's attention.

Of course the running had to take a bit of a back seat, as Wednesday is usually an opportunity. It wasn't until the Friday that there was a chance to get out for a daytime 10 mile run. Cold but calm and the sun shining made for a really pleasant time.

Then on the Saturday night attended a fundraising night in Newton Aycliffe as part of Mayor Sarah Iveson's fund raising. There was entertainment by two brave folk singers and 3 different dance schools, a ballroom dancing, more classical dancing and Irish dancing. There were some really talented children performing. Didn't finish until late but a really worthwhile time.

Today was determined to get a decent run in. The weather was awful. Freezing cold, drizzle and a piercing southerly wind. It wasn't too bad on the way out toward Durham and the rain stopped after a while. Just before reaching the 10 mile mark came across a succession of runners heading towards me. The first few were clearly good and fast, but as time went on they were struggling more. I turned round and caught up with the tailenders. Apparently they were engaged in a duathlon, that is cycle, run and cycle race. Overtook one poor soul who seemed quite distressed but didn't want any help. After a short while they took off on a different route leaving me alone again. 

That was certainly the theme today, solitude. Apart from a few dog owners and the racers there were hardly any people on the tracks at all. Running back towards Bishop and the reason was obvious, it was bitterly cold running into the wind. At one point I had to put on a running gilet (kind of waistcoat) as I could feel my body temperature dropping and couldn't feel my hands at all. Coming back into Bishop it would have been so easy to head back home and leave it at 20 miles but it was time to make a real effort and try for a full marathon distance. 

Pleased to have made the effort for although the last 6 miles were fairly slow, still managed to complete it in less than 4 hours. Shows you how bad this year has been, this was my first marathon of the year.

11-11-7 Can't believe it is over a month since the last update. They say life should start to get easier as you get older, but the opposite seems to be happening. 'So much to do and so little time to do it!' to quote Willy Wonka. As far as the running is concerned its simply a case of getting them whenever and wherever possible. This at least means different scenery. 

The first such place was near Macclesfield in the Peak district. Was asked to speak at an insulin pump training course at Shrigley Manor Hotel. This was a palatial hall built by wealthy industrialists as a Missionary training school. Drove down after finishing work so arrived in pitch black and pouring rain. The next morning woke as early as possible to get a run in before breakfast (not a good time of day for me). It was still dark on setting off. Asked the hotel receptionists the best route and following their instructions only went wrong once.  Also learnt why its called the 'Peak District'. The first part of the run was around the top of a hill facing over the plains of Cheshire. As the sun rose the view became quite stunning. Then downhill for a couple of miles before reaching a picturesque stone built town. Of course what goes down... meant a couple of stiff uphill miles before returning to the manor. A beautiful building with a huge church attached, obviously for the missionaries.

The other different run took place in Durham City itself. I was due to attend a meeting in Newcastle later in the evening so the only chance of a run was to go straight from work. Again a very hilly route though avoided going through the town centre so not so picturesque.

This coming Wednesday is World Diabetes Day, in the United Nations Year Of The Child, so the emphasis is on children with diabetes. Unbelievably there is almost nothing significant happening in the UK, further evidence of the lack of interest in children's diabetes.

Locally it seemed too good an opportunity to miss. Dr Paul Peter a specialist in diabetes working at Bishop Auckland has been very busy organising events for the day. He has hired a London Routemaster bus to stop off at local supermarkets to raise awareness of diabetes generally. We've also produced posters highlighting the need to be vigilant in watching for the signs of diabetes in children. These have been printed up by a company that manufactures insulin and will be distributed amongst the surgeries of local family doctors, and local schools. We hope to get the local press interested and have sent some images advertising the symbol, unite for diabetes. 

This is a picture of Paul and myself. We had a great time clambering over the old bus. It brought me straight back to my early teens when I briefly attended a school in London and had to get a red London bus every day. Let's hope th day goes well and really does raise awareness.

Finally a good long run today, a full 20 miles running towards Durham and back. A glorious sunny day much of the time, but a very chilling wind. Fortunately with a North wind, it means tough out journey, easy return home. Plenty of running left in the legs too so next weekend might try for a full marathon distance. We'll see what the weather is like.

7-10-7 The high point of the week was Monday when a group of youngsters presented their report on what they wanted to see improved in the clinic. These are the successors to the 730+ club and their report was called 'Connecting With U'. I shall report more on this but the young peoples biggest objection lay not with the clinic but the impression that the general public have of diabetes. Most people have what the children called 'Lifestyle' or type 2 diabetes which can be prevented by living a healthy and active life, but the children have what they called'Sudden Onset' or type 1 diabetes which they developed through no fault of their own. They wanted people to distinguish between the two. So 

Sudden Onset Diabetes

it is going to be from now on as far as I am concerned. Spread the word!

Not much chance for running since the GNR. Usually can reckon on at least a Wednesday night , but worked too late, and then on the Thursday night had to cover for a junior doctor who was unwell, meant staying in the hospital overnight, and not getting much sleep. Still it is actually quite good to get back on the shop floor so to speak.

Anyway it meant that a sleep deprived Friday run was the first opportunity in October, but at least it was a glorious evening. 

Today wasn't quite so nice. Spent the morning and early afternoon being helped by our great neighbour Kieth laying a floor down in the attic to create a bit of storage for all the stuff our children leave behind on their travels. Quite tiring work but was determined to get a run in. By the time we called a stop for the day it was drizzling and very dark outside. At least that meant a relatively cool run. Decided to try a different route up towards Etherley and back via the new bypass, just under 11 miles.

30-9-7 Today was the Great North Run, and a pretty good day it was too.

Howver before the GNR, a lot of other things have been happening too. Was in Berlin last week at the ISPAD meeting (International Sociaty of Paediatric and Adolescent Diabetes). Presented a couple of posters, mini presentations really about some of the outcomes of the insulin pump service in Bishop Auckland. Of course insulin pumps are pretty well sandard treatment in Germany, USA and most developed countries, but the clinic in Bishop Auckland is probably one of the largest children's pump services in the UK. 

Managed to fit in a couple of shortish runs whilst in Berlin, even if it meant having to get up at 5-30 am UK time. One run was quite special in that it involved running along a very famous Berlin street called Unter Der Linden and through the Brandenburgh Gates, a famous Berlin landmark.

Today was good fun. It wasn't too hot, and although the road was very crowded and a slow start, it did mean I hadn't burnt myself out by running too fast and made a farily decent time of just over 1 hr and 41 minutes. It was one of the most enjoyable runs and I had a big smile on my face almost the whole way round. It is such a fabulous atmosphere.

23-9-7 There was almost a disaster as far as the web-site was concerned. The computer which is used to publish the web crashed, and the hard drive with all the data stored on it. That put paid to any updates. Had to rebuild the computer and the software. However it wasn't all bad news as after a few days rest, the old drive started to work in spurts and so was able to rescue the data.

Anyway what has been happening on the running front? A bit more this Septmeber, purely because the Great North Run is looming along soon.

25-8-7 Such a long time since there was a posting on the diary. It is a measure, along with the reduced mileage of just how hectic things have become this past year. Doesn't look too good. Can't even blame the weather because paradoxically the cool wet days have been good to run.

The last run out was almost a week ago now. With the tracks being too wet, took a route through Witton Park, up to Toft hill via the Witton le Wear bypass and back down into West Auckland. It was good to get out, but nothing remarkable.

There has been some news on the fund-raising side. Attended a Rotary Club meeting in Whickham as a guest of the Lady Mayor of Sedgfield Borough, Sarah Iveson. It was a great evening and resulted in an unexpected donation. Every Rotary club seems to have its own personality, the Whickham branch had a higher proportion of women and was remarkable for the good humoured banter amonst the members. A great night out. There have been lots and lots of little donations so more news to follw as soon as time permits.

15-7-7 A walk just for a change, and with company. This was the annual Great North Walk day, in aid of Diabetes UK. Colette and myself have walked it each year for the past 4 years. Of course as always I irritated everybody by saying how it would be easier and a lot quicker to run the distance, but it is true. Not just the speed either as my legs tire and ache more with walking.

The walk started near Darlington Golf Club, and to prevent too many people crowding on the course the walk numbers are colour coded. Ours were yellow and that meant an 11 am start. With the weather forecast set to rain by the afternoon we were keen to make an early start but at 10 am the marshals were not letting people go out of sequence. No way were we going to wait for an hour so just like errant schoolchildren we covered our numbers with arms and clothing and sneaked onto the walk. How bizarre for two 50+ adults to feel guilty about setting off a bit early.

As always a great variety of people. The problem with the Darlington course is that there are several long stretches where the path is too narrow to pass, and it can be very frustrating with slow walkers ahead of you. There were several people for whom the walk will have been a great challenge, both physically and mentally. At one point we passed one gentleman who I recognised from 3 years earlier, when he had been dressed in full 1940's army uniform. He had served in Africa in 1941. He was keeping a pretty good pace going especially as it was obvious that both his knees had been replaced, possibly his hips too!

There were lots of acquaintances to renew on the journey, a chance to queue for the Portaloos, have a picnic in a cow-pat studded field and dodge the inevitable mud and puddles. Even managed a half decent cup of coffee from a mobile expresso bar. 

It was different from the usual Sunday run, a great pleasure to spend time with Colette, a bit more leisurely.

1-7-7 Well some weather we've been having, so any opportunity to run that might have arisen was pretty washed out! At least it became an opportunity to perhaps expand the road based routes. One long run last Sunday towards Brancepeth was run between rain showers. Set off from Bishop, cool, windy but only a slight drizzle and that was how it stayed for me. It was obvious that I was following a heavy storm as the track was absolutely soaking. till feeling very tired so only went for a 15 mile run. On the way back, again a very wet track, following the rain in the opposite direction. 

Then a very busy week and not much of a chance to run until Friday. Stayed off the track and headed off to Etherley and through West Auckland. The same again today but varied the route along a new bypass. Off course the heavy rain from last night meant even the new path laid by the road was full of water and at times I had to run on the road. When will summer start? Not doing too well with the mileage, as June used to be a really good month for the miles. 

22-6-7 Sorry to the reader of this blog, there may be a couple out there, but its been another busy week and keeping the site up to date hasn't been very easy.

Tonight felt very weary and so paradoxically went for the really hilly Westerton route. With all the recent rain didn't fancy the muddy tracks. Possibly just as well as within 10 minutes of starting big fat raindrops came pelting down. Fortunately it wasn't too heavy for too long. Had hoped to feel a bit more energetic towards the end, but no, just more tired.

On Tuesday night ran back from Durham hospital. Again decided to keep to the roads and avoid the tracks which would have been flooded at that time. Again it is a very hilly route so that might explain why the legs felt so tired tonight. Certainly cycling in to work on the Wednesday morning was not at all easy. The good news is that after a 6 month absence, Judith my secretary is back and things are getting organised again. There are more people wanting to start on a pump and even more exciting is the latest pump development. This is a pump which can also use a glucose sensor to measure the sugar levels 24 hrs a day. Have started 4 people on this now and it is making a big difference to their diabetes control. Will be using the funds to buy more of the devices.. More of that later. It is now very late on Friday night, need to get some sleep. 

10-6-7 Another week of ward duty with its usual limitations on running finally came to an end. Managed to squeeze in a run back from Durham on the Monday night. Definitely warming up. Even with overcast skies the humidity made such a difference. For the first time this year needed to carry a drink to top up. As usual the tracks were almost deserted except for dog-walkers, and reassuringly children out on bikes.

The next run was on the Friday morning, just before it got too hot. Just a jog out to Spennymoor and back. The big run was today, to Durham and back. Much hotter. Had to take off the shirt after a couple of miles and carry plenty of drinks. The track was a lot busier with at least 2 couples out running and lots of cyclists of all ages. Plenty of wild life too. Rabbits and birds.

One of the characters on the tracks each Sunday is a rambler with one of those grabber sticks. He must start from close to Durham and walks back to Bishop Auckland clearing all the non-bio-degradeable rubbish. He fills a sack each time and the path would be so messy if it wasn't for his efforts. Its a shame though. Why can't people just carry their rubbish back home with them? 

Finished the 20 miles feeling tired but satisfied. Need to push it to marathon distance again soon.

27-5-7 As busy as ever. Was quite upset on Friday. The lack of a secretary has made trying to organise all the work, teaching, training, insulin pump service and charity very difficult. In the past week I've ended up in the wrong hospitals twice for clinics, and on Friday was double booked to start two adults off on pumps as well as spend the afternoon teaching medical students. Really felt like just walking out. Anyway there was at least the opportunity for a run, even though I felt exhausted. It was just the thing to clear away some of the stress. Nothing special about the run though, just out to Spennymoor and back. On the Sunday with rain forecast and another cold day, didn't feel like busting a gut so had another try at a different route, out to Etherley, back into West Auckland and along the old railway track back towards Bishop. Whether or not there will be other opportunities to run this weekend depends on whether or not I can clear some of the backlog of paper work that has accumulated.

20-5-7 An eventful week for the running. Not that there have been any races or unusual challenges, but there have been some interesting episodes. At least managed three runs.

The first run of the week was the hilly claw up to Westerton. The concerned mother's exhortation to 'cast not a clout, till May is out' has rung true over the past chilly few days. But this is great for running. With the threat of rain it didn't seem sensible to risk the tracks. The 20 miler on Sunday did take a lot of the 'zip' out of the legs so the hills seemed much steeper and longer than normal. As always there was a sense of achievement on reaching the top of Westerton hill and looking at the fabulous views. 

On the last mile back home I overtook some young lads ambling along on bikes, well 2 to one bike. They were obviously intensely curious as to why a grey haired old man was running and asked lots of questions. But first they introduced themselves as Marwen and Brian. They wanted to know how fast I was running, how far, where to, where did I live etc etc. After 9.5 miles and a good pace it was a little difficult answering without panting. They eventually gave up trying to keep pace with me but no doubt will meet again.

Earlier in the week decided to take a different slant on some older routes. Headed off towards Shildon and the infamous Busty Bank. This time instead of running all the way back along the bypass took a bridleway off towards West Auckland. The wind was still pretty strong on the exposed tracks. The way back was again through St Helen Auckland, a slightly longer run than the usual straight 10 miles.

13-5-7 A better weeks running. Managed to run back from work on the Wednesday night, beating the rain by a narrow margin. How impressive are the weather forecasts these days. It really is possible to predict whether or not to take a rain jacket. With the grey skies and cool winds, it was quite a pleasant 13 miles. Chose the old railway line for the quietness and passed very few people. Even fewer cycling back to work the next morning along the same route. Only a handful walking their dogs.

By the Friday was feeling exhausted but was determined to get in another 10 miles, but it didn't feel great, so it was with a fair degree of trepidation that I decided to try for a full 20 miles on the Sunday. Again a good weather forecast, and a cool run. 

Quite a lot of runners out, especially women, passed three groups of them and a couple of men. There are one set of men who run every Sunday from just after Willington, towards Brandon. One is about my age or slightly younger, one in his 30's and a lad in late teens or early 20's. The oldest and youngest seem pretty relaxed, but the middle man, carrying a bit more weight always looks absolutely exhausted. However he never gives up so you've got to admire his grit and determination.

After about 6 miles developed a sharp pain behind the right kneecap. It persisted for the rest of the run, though never too bad as to make me want to stop. It doesn't seem to be the joint so I guess it must be tendonitis in an unusual place. It has continued to niggle on and is particularly bad going up stairs or slopes.

Felt tired at the start, seemed to gain energy after 5 miles and felt really quite good between 8 and 17 miles. The last 3 miles were just weary. Still managed to complete them. Need to get in some shorter faster runs, but there just isn't any time!

7-5-7 A pretty rotten weekend on call so far. Was called up every night so am at least 8 hours sleep deprived. Still as today was a Bank Holiday, it meant one of my colleagues was covering the ward for the day giving me a chance to get out for a run at last. 

With the weather forecast set for rain, decided to take the simple option of a 10 mile jog to Spennymoor and back. The blood donation is still having an effect with a faster than usual heart rate and not quite as much oomph going up the hills.  It was fairly cool again with a stiff breeze, into my face on the way back. There were a few walkers and even a runner out today, but considering it was a bank holiday, very quiet. Everybody must have headed out to the coast, or more likely the shops.

2-5-7 An opportunity to carry out an experiment on myself. I have always tried to be a regular blood donor, although the working hours make it very difficult. Anyway, the mobile donor van came to the hospital today. Gave my pint of blood. The nurse who took the blood and gave the health checks was very pleasant and chatty and it turns out that she is a runner. She was looking forward to doing the Blaydon Races 5 km. She also said "I hope you are not planning to do anything too strenuous after the donation." Well as it happened I'd planned to run 10 miles once back home.  She didn't approve but the opportunities to run are so limited these days, and with a weekend on call coming up it would be the last chance for almost a week.

So an hour later, armed with a drink to make up for the loss of a pre-run pint of fluid, set off on a standard run to Spennymoor. 

Well it does make a difference. Usually after a few days without a run, the legs have plenty of go in them. Well the legs were willing but the chest was weak. Felt really short of breath running uphill and there just wasn't the strength in the legs. Despite this made a reasonable time. The other notable finding was the effect on heart rate. Usually the rate for a fast 10 miles is around 150/min (As you get older your maximum heart rate falls) This run, a whole 2 to 3 minutes slower than usual, had an average heart rate closer to 160/min.

So not a dreadful fall off in performance, but enough to say, don't donate blood just before a big race! Mind you it wouldn't take a genius to work that one out, but it was good to prove it.

29-4-7 Just for the sake of being really boring,  this has been yet another totally hectic week at work. So once again little opportunity to run, not that my back would have allowed too much. Unfortunately my earlier optimism was rather misplaced, with continuing pain. Standing in front of the mirror shows the usual Pisa look, with a distinct lean to the right. So let that be a warning to all, don't risk a cheap mattress!

First chance came Friday afternoon with a stiff but reasonably brisk trot to Spennymoor and back. Although the rest of the country has been basking in an unseasonable heat wave our little corner of the North East has been rather cool, chilly even. That isn't so bad when out for a run, meaning 10 to 12 miles without carrying a drink is easy enough. It's also been too windy for the insects. The track was surprisingly quiet apart from the odd dog walker.

Today with so much to do it seemed sensible to only run 12 miles. Again very cool with only occasional glimpses of sunlight. A few more runners out and lots of cyclists. 

People continue to fascinate me. As you're running past I always like to offer a greeting but some people make it very clear they want complete solitude. They look away with a fierce intensity, or ignore any greetings. Such a shame, you wonder what it is that makes them so isolated. A smile and a greeting do make the day more pleasant. 

Back still stiff but able to make the 12 miles easily enough.

22-4-7 It took the best part of a week before my back had recovered enough to allow for a run, so the first opportunity came on Friday afternoon. Desperate to get some exercise so probably went further than was wise with a run to Spennymoor and back. It is interesting how a bad back affects my running.  The posture is much more stiff and it isn't possible to extend the legs as far forward as normal. I also feel very vulnerable as a sudden movement or stumble leads to jarring pains. Despite all that managed a reasonably fast stretch out.

Today was the London marathon. Still smarting at a fourth rejection. What is it the organisers don't like? Originally before the injury had intended to run a marathon today. At least the weather here was a lot better, cool and quite breezy, but was still a little stiff after Friday and decided to be sensible and just go for 15 miles instead. Glad in the end as felt very tired coming back from Brancepeth. 

There were a lot of people out today, riding, walking and cycling, no other runners. A few of the walkers passed remarks about going in the wrong direction. Saw quite a lot of wildlife as well. So many birds out nest building and foraging, rabbits and even a red deer at one stage. Despite the temperatures being quite mild, the breeze felt cold and I was glad of the gloves I brought. On the way back the wind was very strong.

The latest good news is that the PCT have agreed to fund insulin pumps for children and adults. This means they will pay for the pumps and consumables. What isn't certain is how they'll pay for the people to run the service. Ah well it just wouldn't be our glorious new NHS if there weren't problems on the horizon. We'll see what transpires.

15-4-7 Went to visit my parents in Norfolk. As usual took the chance to run into the Thetford forest which surrounds their village. Whilst the rest of the country basked in the warmth, the mornings there were very cold. Temperatures were only just hitting 8C. I regretted not taking gloves with me on both runs. Still the rest of the days were glorious and warm. It was good meeting up with all the family again. The runs were OK too, with very little wind. 

You would expect the routes to be very flat, being in Norfolk but looking at the readouts from my GPS watch it appears as if there was almost as much climbing as back at Bishop Auckland, only it was probably at a more gentle and gradual slope.

Unfortunately the second night I slept in a put-you-up bed, which although it felt comfortable must have put my back out as within hours of getting up the next morning I was in the usual bad back agony and walking around like a living copy of the leaning tower of Pisa. To say any more will be just to whinge, but instead of the prospect of possibly 160 or more miles this month, will be lucky to start running within a week. 

One of the advantages of not starting running until my late 40's was joints in fairly pristine condition, the downside has been a catalogue of injuries, most not due to running! Will just have to be patient. 

Back to work again tomorrow!

11-4-7 Have finally managed a few days holiday and of course am frantically busy doing all the things there hasn't been time to do before. Still managed to get some runs in though. 

Holidays mean early morning runs, and with the weather being so glorious and sunny, its better to set off early before it gets too hot. The first run was the standard one to Spennymoor. Misjudged the temperatures though as it was only 5 degrees and was stupid enough not to wear gloves. Its always so tempting to run faster when you're cold in order to warm up, but even then my hands were frozen by the end. That is always unpleasant with the numbness turning into pins and needles as the fingers thaw out. Spring was definitely in the air with birds frantically building nests, the trees coming into blossom and everything looking green and fresh.

The next run out could have been more of the same but decided to add a bit of a challenge and take the hilly Westerton route. There was a bit more of a breeze, so even though it was much warmer, the run was still very pleasant.

Today was very different. Had noticed a sign outside of Bishop Auckland pointing to a cycle way to Barnard Castle, some 15 miles away. Strapped on the trusty GPS and headed off. It was a fascinating mix of old railway tracks and drovers roads circling around the towns and villages. It was also mostly uphill and after 5 miles joined onto ordinary roads, so decided to head back after 6 miles. The way back downhill was very pleasant. 

Will be off to visit my parents in Norfolk tomorrow so it will be a few days before the site gets updated again.

4-4-7 What a glorious evening to run today. A truly balmy spring day, gentle breeze and clear blue skies. A brisk 10 miles to Spennymoor and back, passing the spring blossoms and the trees full of excited birds. This past week was full of exercise with another run back from Durham on the Wednesday and another cycle in on the Thursday. Together with a 10 mile run on the Friday, a 15 miler on the Sunday that came to over 70 miles. The legs are a bit tired but it will end up with me being fitter.

26-3-7 Ran back from the hospital in Durham tonight. It was the first chance for several days. Not only was I on call for the weekend, but it was exceptionally busy. I only had one proper meal from Friday morning until Sunday night, and never go to bed before midnight. Probably not the best preparation for a 12.5 mile run, but it felt so good to get out again. It was a perfect evening to run. A cool breeze, perhaps at times a bit too chilly, and a glorious setting sun. Ran back fairly quickly, all that pent up energy to expend. With a bit of luck will run back again on Wednesday, but its the cycle in tomorrow!

21-3-7 Winter bites back. After last weeks gales temperatures plummeted. Am due to be on call this coming weekend so there will be little or no opportunity to run. Tonight was therefore a must run occasion. It was bitterly cold with enough wind to knife a chill through to my bones. At least it was reasonably light for the first half of the run up towards Etherley. Despite having taken that route countless times, the changing seasons and lighting conditions always mean something new to observe. Quite taken with vestiges of snow and the cherry trees in full blossom. Can't imagine much of a fruit harvest this year. At least the winds dried everything out, so no puddles to avoid.

As usual with these cold runs the senses are set to be confused. Sweaty body and frostbitten extremities. I hate the way my face freezes and I start drooling, unable to feel the lips. Sometimes the cold wind chills the forehead giving a cold headache, just like when you eat an ice cream too fast. Yet as always, after 30 minutes the endorphins kick in and running back from Etherley, having put in all the uphill miles, some very steep, the next four miles are mostly downhill. As the breath comes back and the lungs stop burning (with the current added pleasure of the cracked ribs) the stride length increases and you feel almost as if your feet have wings. Its then you forget the cold and discomfort and the running becomes a pleasure. 

The other good news is another person starting on a pump in the next few days. There are still at least another half dozen waiting but its becoming very difficult to find the time at present.

18-3-7 Well March is supposed to come in like a lion, just waiting for it to turn into a lamb! Spent the end of last week in Glasgow, attending the annual Diabetes UK scientific conference. Got to see the latest insulin pumps, some excellent lectures and meet with old colleagues.

Full of good intentions to go running but the first night didn't get back until too late to run as had arranged to see our eldest daughter for a meal out.  The next day was very similar, so instead of a 10 miler only had time for 5 miles. My hotel was at the western end of Suchiehall street so just carried on running west along the Dumbarton road, past Kelvingrove park, the Kelvingrove museum and Byres road. The road transformed into an urban clearway so headed off back towards the centre before turning back and ending up with a circuit of Kelvingrove park. Only moderately windy.

Today was a real challenge. Glorious sunshine and a gale. OK running towards Spennymoor, the few people out were either strolling along, or being bowled along, or if coming in the opposite direction, leaning into the wind. On the way back there were times when I was blown to a standstill. So instead of the usual Sunday 20 miler, more than content with a sensible 10 instead. 

11-3-7 The first really long run since the February disaster! Probably not the best day to pick seeing as it was blowing a gale outside. OK for the way out towards Durham, but a fierce headwind all the way back. Felt really tired for the last couple of miles. 

Only one other runner, we passed early on and then he overtook me easily on his way back. Lots of cyclists and walkers as usual. An added irritation is the persistent pain of the cracked ribs. Its well over 2 weeks now and its still not possible to take a big breath or sneeze without experiencing shooting pains. It is true to say I was conscious of every breath on today's run.

Amazing that signs of spring are everywhere. Robins staking out territories, catkins in the trees, lots of birds. 

This might be the last posting for a while. Later this week is the Diabetes UK meeting so not much opportunity to run or keep the website updated. 

4-3-7 At last, back on the roads again. Although still in a lot of pain, conscious of every breath, it was possible to breathe a bit more deeply, so yesterday decided to try a short run. Managed a gentle 5 miles around the town, and didn't feel any worse for it so tried for a bit further today. The weather forecast was for dreadful conditions later so limited myself to 16 miles in the morning. Again as long as I didn't take big breaths everything was fine.

It was really good to begin with, cold and not too blowy, perfect for a steady pace. Not many people out on the tracks, a real contrast to a couple of weeks ago, but of course it was lovely and sunny then.

A bit colder and windier on the way back but was just so pleased to have been able to run again. Sadly age does mean that you lose fitness quicker so its going to take a few weeks to get back to January's level.

25-2-7 Well no more running for a week or two! Took a group of youngsters with diabetes to a local ice rink. The children aged between 12-14 from 3 County Durham clinics, accompanied by several adults had an afternoon on the ice. Most of the adults, quite sensibly either kept to the land or clung onto the sides. Foolishly, for somebody who had ice-skated only once before, and that over 30 years earlier, I was determined to learn how.

OK so going forwards quite fast was possible. Even some limited maneuvering was possible but staying on one's feet proved a bit more of a challenge. I counted at least 8 spectacular falls, usually onto my chest, and judging from the subsequent pain must have collected at least 2 cracked ribs.

It means any movement involving the trunk as support results in severe pain, such as turning over in bed at night, laughing, coughing trying to stand from sitting, and obviously running. Night time is the worst. Getting into a comfortable position is possible but as soon as I try to move, or turn over in sleep, searing pains grip both sides of my chest. As Colette says, its like watching a heavily pregnant woman turn over, slowly and carefully.

So much for getting the mileage up!

Still there is plenty of good news from the fund-raising side. On Friday, collected a cheque for £1000 from Darren Pearson of the Cottles pub in Willington.

Then on Friday night had the great privilege of being invited to Ronald Hogarth's 65th birthday celebrations. Ronald and his wife had decided to ask for donations to the fund instead of presents, especially as they had three relatives who were wearing insulin pumps. Ronald came from a big family and there were over 100 people there. Here is a photo of Ronald and two of the children with a collection box.

So apart from a brisk walk there isn't much else to be able to do a report. Hopefully the ribs will heal soon.

14-2-7 Happy Valentine's day! It always seems to get busier and busier. The first week of February was a combination of a week of ward duty and a bad cold, both conspiring to reduce the running opportunities. Had one run back from Durham. Once again a freezing cold night, possibly the coldest run of the year because of the wind-chill factor. When the weekend came felt rather unwell with a cold and laryngitis so rather than chance making things worse with a long run, just had a couple of 10 milers instead.

Monday night decided to try a new route. Well the roads don't change, its just the direction you run along that's different. It can make quite a big difference. For example, there are two ways to run towards Etherley. One is to go via Witton Park which involves a couple of hill climbs, then a couple of steep hills up and down and then a very steep hill. Going along the main road is just one single uphill route, so overall a much easier run and faster. Perhaps it is the build up to the London Marathon, but there do seem to be more runners out at nights.

Tonight went on the more normal 10 mile route, and for the first time in 4 months, didn't need a headlamp to guide me. It is so much better to run in the light. 

29-1-7 This has been the most miles I've ever run in a January, almost twice as much as some years and the month still isn't over! The forecast was for sunshine and moderate winds today. Sunshine was correct, but the winds were at times near gale-force. Tried to set a steady pace but with the wind it was a bit difficult to judge and was probably putting in more effort than intended. Certainly the total time taken wasn't bad considering the conditions. The mild weather brought so many people out onto the tracks. 

Passed one lady runner heading in the same direction towards Langley Park, and was overtaken by another coming into Brandon. Met with a few others at various points, the most runners out on a Sunday I can remember for a long time. All these New Year Resolutions perhaps. There was the usual steady stream of cyclists, singly in pairs and one very large group well wrapped up. It always seems a bit strange when you're running quite fast as it doesn't take much to keep warm, a pair of gloves, a reasonably warm vest and running tights. Walkers and cyclists often have several layers on and must think I'm mad, or a proper Geordie  There were also two large parties of walkers as well as the usual dog walkers. It was almost as busy as in the summer. Even the birds were out in force today.

Coming back into Willington decided to see if the Cottles pub was open. Not for a drink but to say thanks to the landlord, Darren Pearson who has raised another large sum of money (more details to appear in the fundraising column). Unfortunately it was too early for opening but as I ran up the street noticed that William Walton's the Butchers was open. They've also been a fabulous support to the appeal so it was good to be able to meet up and thank them personally. Not sure they'll have been too impressed by the sweaty, smelly appearance though. Fortunately they had no customers in at the time.

21-1-7 Am managing to keep up a good mileage this month, despite the weather, and not on the treadmill once. Checked the weather reports last night and again decided to head out towards Durham. The 24 hour report said showers early followed by sunshine and a change in the wind. How amazing are these forecasts, as apart from the sunshine coming a little late, it was spot on. 

Early on the track was treacherous with patches of ice, and after all the rain recently it was very muddy, but all in all not a bad run.

16-1-7 Ran back from the Durham hospital tonight. Another really cold run, it even started to snow at one point. This time there was a bit more of a breeze, especially coming through Middlestone Moor, and despite the gloves and a good pace I was feeling very chilled. Of course this means leaving the car behind in Durham and with the eldest son flying off to Holland can no longer expect a lift to work in the morning.

17-1-7 No car, too long and slow to run so it was 'on yer bike' this morning. Needed a good light for the first part of the journey with it still being night at 7-30am but after a few miles the sun rose. To stay safe used the tracks as much as possible, the old Bishop to Brandon line that I normally run along. Very cold and windy but it was impossible to keep to a steady pace, and just had to pedal as fast as comfortable. Cycling is very different, it stresses other muscles and still generates a lot of heat, but at the same time your feet aren't getting any blood circulating through them. So I was hot on top, and freezing toes. Have got to be careful as there are no easy shower facilities and didn't want to be stinking of sweat at work. It took much longer than I thought, even at a good speed. Almost an hour, just 30 minutes shorter than running! Mind you after a run it would have taken nearly an hour to recover and get showered etc. The other concern was not being used to wearing a helmet for running, forgot to put on my cycle helmet. Felt very vulnerable, especially amongst traffic. That won't happen again.

14-1-7 Managing to get some miles in despite the weather, un-remittingly windy and wet. Today the forecast was for sun and .... wind so headed out towards Brandon. The wind had dried out the track so there was very little mud. Heading towards Durham the wind was from behind, a nice easy trek but what goes out must come back and the wind was unpleasantly strong and full in my face on the return journey. 

The number of other runners on the track was amazing, with groups of one or two every mile or so. One amazing sight, a couple with a pushchair, but instead of the expected baby, they were wheeling a tiny dog, with another prancing around. Both dogs were be-ribboned, wouldn't have been out of place draped over a super model's arm. 

Another 2 children are starting on a pump next week, the first of the New Year, there'll be more to come.

2-1-7 Happy New Year. Managed to squeeze in a few runs at the end of the year. The last one on the Saturday before the New Year was a real corker! It started out fairly reasonably with a clear blue sky, and a near gale force wind. After so much rain couldn't chance the tracks, they would be far too muddy so struck out for the Coundon - Westerton route looking for a good workout. The running felt OK although there were times when a gust of wind threatened to blow me into the road. After a couple of miles glanced back to see a thick black squall line approaching over the hills. A strange feeling, knowing that at some point in the run I was going to get soaked and cold, yet awesomely beautiful. Nothing for it but to keep running.

Amazingly was able to go for almost 7 miles before it rained heavily, but then it was miserable, the rain whipping into my face and filling the shoes. The last mile with the rain and wind from behind was strangely just as unpleasant. The backs of my legs had been warm so the cold rain lashing into them was not good.

Today was a lot more pleasant. Again too wet to risk the trails but this time went towards Escomb. Sun shining and a brisk wind blowing. The last three miles felt strange. Although I didn't think I was running particularly fast my breathing seemed laboured, and a glance at the wrist monitor suggested sub-7 minute miles which for me is fast. The one thing that is for certain is no likelihood of running faster times as I get older, but the odd burst feels OK.