A run in memory of Great North Run participant Sam Wealleans, who tragically collapsed and died during the race, is now set to take place along the South Shields coastline. 

Sam died in hospital after falling ill towards the end of the 13-mile route of the half-marathon on Sunday (September 8). 

The 29-year-old, from Newbiggin in Northumberland, was taking part in the race to raise funds for mental health charity Mind, in memory of his sister Carly and a family friend. 

Earlier this week, a Facebook page was set up encouraging people to meet at the 11-mile mark where Sam collapsed and finish the run in his memory. 

The Great North Run 2024The Great North Run 2024 (Image: Great Run Company)

However, this has now been relocated due to “safety concerns” - with organisers opting to host the race along the coast to the end point of where the Great North Run finishes.

A South Tyneside Council spokesperson confirmed that it was working with the organiser to look to deliver an event of this nature “properly, planned, and safely in the future”. 

As previously reported, beautician Stephanie Cochrane, 32, from North Tyneside, set up the page in memory of Sam after being compelled to honour him and support his family. 

The new route will see runners set off from Trow point car park at 11am on Sunday (September 15) before heading along the coastal pathway. 

The National Trust has confirmed to The Northern Echo that general manager Eric Wilton has spoken to the organisers and given permission for this to go ahead on The Leas.

The New Sundial, in South Shields, will also open its doors to anyone who wishes to raise a glass to Sam. 

Sam’s page has since gone on to raise £24,900 by 1885 donors, soaring past his initial target of £350. Another fundraiser recently set up in memory of Sam has also raised a further £5,825 of a £2,500 target.

Ian Lavery, MP for Blyth and Ashington, has since posted regarding the tragic incident.

He said: “I am deeply saddened to hear about Sam’s passing. He was running at the weekend in memory of his sister and to raise money for Mind, the mental health charity. 

“It is such an important cause and people are continuing to donate in Sam’s memory. He has raised £20,600 so far.”

A full statement from South Tyneside Council said: “We are saddened by Sam’s death and our hearts go out to all of his family and friends at this time.

Recommended reading:

Get more from The Northern Echo with a digital subscription. Get access for 3 months for just £3. Click here.

“It is heartening that people are coming together to finish the run in tribute to Sam.

“As chair of the Safety Advisory Group, we have offered to work with the event organiser, to look to deliver an event of this nature properly, planned and safely in the future.”

The Northern Echo has contacted Northumbria Police for comment.