The Ponteland New Year wheelbarrow race brought together 120 participants to raise funds for local charities, despite chilly weather conditions
It was super inclusive too, with young adults who have learning and physical disabilities getting to race alongside members from The Barn, a local gym run by Jo Shallcross.
Even though it was a bit chilly and breezy, the rain mostly stayed away, which was a relief. The Open Race saw James Leiper and Robert Holt take the win for the third consecutive year, finishing in 7 minutes and 2 seconds.
They were a bit slower than their previous years, but hey, the weather can be tricky! Lucy and Annabel Cardno snagged the Ladies Race with a solid time of 9 minutes and 25 seconds.
In the Inclusive Race, Charlie Fretwell and Rosie Carr took home the victory, while brothers William and Edward Grace shone in the Junior Race.
The event raised funds through wheelbarrow sponsorships, entry fees, program sales, and bucket collections, with proceeds going to St Oswald’s Hospice and Tynedale at Home Hospice.
If anyone’s keen to sponsor a wheelbarrow for the 2026 race, they can reach out to Andy Lawson at 07989 355557 or via email at Andrew@andrew-lawson.co.uk.
