Published on: 17/09/2026
A team from St Gabriel’s Church in Sheffield has completed an extraordinary 90-mile coast-to-coast relay, raising more than £7,300 for Golddigger Trust, a charity supporting the wellbeing and resilience of young people across Sheffield and South Yorkshire.
The challenge took place on Sunday, 13 September, with runners setting off at midnight and travelling from Bowness-in-Solway on the west coast to Tynemouth on the east coast. Running continuously in pairs, the team completed the route in just 16 hours, covering demanding terrain and navigating through the night before reaching the finish line on the North Sea coast.
The relay brought together members of the church community, support crews and supporters, all united by a desire to support the work of Golddigger Trust. Individual runners (including Associate Archdeacon Mike Gilbert) covered between 10 and 30 miles each, handing over to teammates throughout the day as the challenge crossed northern England from coast to coast.
More than 140 people have donated to the appeal so far, helping the team exceed its original fundraising target. The funds raised will help Golddigger Trust continue its work with young people through mentoring programmes, school partnerships and targeted wellbeing initiatives from their base at The Refinery on Ecclesall Road, Sheffield. The charity supports hundreds of young people each year, helping them to build confidence, resilience and self-worth, and recently celebrated their 20th anniversary.
Among those taking part was Tim Elgar, a trustee of Golddigger Trust, who reflected on the significance of the challenge.
“This was an enormous team effort. Through the night, across the hills and over 90 miles, everyone kept going because we believe young people deserve support, encouragement and hope. We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who donated, cheered us on and helped make this challenge possible.”
The challenge comes at a time when many charities are facing increased pressure while demand for support continues to grow. The money raised will enable Golddigger Trust to continue investing in opportunities that help young people flourish and make positive choices for their future.
A five-minute film documenting the relay captures the story of the day, from the team’s midnight start in darkness, through the changing landscapes and runner handovers, to the emotional final stretch at the finish line. The film highlights both the scale of the challenge and the strong sense of community that made it possible.
Further donations can be made via the team’s fundraising page
