Leeds runner and dog take on epic charity challenge for Candlelighters

Gilly Wight, 31, manager at running shop Up and Running on Boar Lane, will run from Otley to Cambridge and then take on the Cambridge Half Marathon, with dog Max by her side some of the way each day.

It will see Gilly, a member of Otley Athletic Club, leave Otley on February 21 and arrive in Cambridge on February 27, clocking up 19-30 miles each day before tackling the 13-mile marathon.

Candlelighters is a charity close to Gilly’s heart and has been supported by Up and Running for the past eight years.

Gilly said: “I have been involved with Candelighters since I was eight years old as a friend’s brother passed away from bone marrow cancer. He went through the Candlelighters system and I remember the look of joy on his face when he enjoyed days out thanks to Candlelighters, so I want to raise as much money for the charity as I can.”

The route has been created by Gilly with help from family and her partner Luke Solomon. It takes in Royston, Worksop, Newark on Trent, Thistleton, Elton and Huntingdon.

Gilly has been running to work from her home in Otley to prepare for the challenge. She added: “Body-wise I feel strong. There has been a big build up to it in my head so the anxiety is starting to creep in but I’m excited for it and Max is absolutely ready for it. A massive thank you to everyone for their support. It’s been overwhelming.”

Running clothes and equipment have been supplied by Brooks, Shock Absorber, Runderwear, TomTom, Nathan, Coach House and Pure Physio, with VetSpec and The Blue Barn providing dog food and nutrition. To donate, visit www.justgiving.com/G-WIGHT