Man who died after Great North Run named
Great Run CompanyA man who died after collapsing during the Great North Run has been named.
Sam Wealleans, of Newbiggin-by-the-Sea, Northumberland, died in hospital on Sunday after falling ill during the race, The Great Run Company (GRC) said.
The 29-year-old was running on behalf of mental health charity Mind in memory of his sister and a close family friend.
The GRC said its “thoughts and sympathies are with all those who loved and knew him”.
A company spokesperson said: “We are continuing to support Sam’s close family during this incredibly difficult time.”
Mr Wealleans’ cause of death is not yet known.
He had been running the half marathon from Newcastle to South Shields to raise £350.
An online fundraiser has now reached more than £8,000.
About 60,000 runners took part in the 13.1-mile (21km) event, in its 43rd year, in wet and cool conditions.
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