A solicitor at a leading legal firm, and partner of the network, is embarking on the latest in a series of challenges to raise vital funds for a local charity.

Zoe Calway, who is a director at Cartmell Shepherd Solicitors, has been a committed supporter for Hospice at Home Carlisle and North Lakeland since 2015, raising funds through sponsored runs, walks and cycles.

After various charity challenges including cycling Coast-to-Coast and taking part in duathlons, Zoe’s next goal is to run the world’s largest half-marathon, the Great North Run, which takes place on Sunday, September 12, 2021.

Zoe, who is based at the firm’s Penrith office, said: “When I started out, I had no idea I was capable of taking on these challenges. I started running after having children so I could get my fitness back. At first, I could only run a few hundred yards but now I’m running marathons.

“I’ve been running a lot more during lockdown and I think it’s so important to have a goal to work towards and the Great North Run just made sense.

“Hospice at Home Carlisle and North Lakeland is a fantastic charity, which provides help and support to people when they need it the most. I’m pleased to help in any way I can.”

Hospice at Home Carlisle and North Lakeland provides high-quality palliative care and support to patients and their families who are affected by a life-limiting illness. The charity relies on fundraising and donations for 80 per cent of its running costs to ensure its services are available when needed and remain free of charge to patients and their families.

Tiffany Lew, from Hospice at Home Carlisle and North Lakeland, said the work of supporters such as Zoe was vital to the hospice.

“Zoe’s support alone has, over the years, amounted to close to a month of specialised overnight care and support from a Hospice at Home nurse,” she said.

“Cartmell Shepherd is a long-standing community champion of Hospice at Home, providing not only financial and professional support but also driving awareness campaigns through such events as Flag Days, Will Aid, and sponsored events.

“Their support for Hospice at Home continues to contribute so much back to our community.”

Zoe works in Cartmell Shepherd’s Wills, Probate and Inheritance team.

The Great North Run half-marathon follows a route from Newcastle to South Shields, with 57,000 people taking part in this year’s event. The half-marathon was due to celebrate its 40th anniversary in 2020 but the event was cancelled due to Covid-19. The anniversary will be marked at the 2021 event instead.

To donate to Zoe’s fund-raising page visit: www.justgiving.com/fundraising/zoe-calway