Clare Hackett battled through freezing conditions ‘fuelled by coffee, shortbread biscuits and sugary jelly’
Clare Hackett, pictured with Craig Eskrett, who is living with MND and his wife Ileshia(Image: MND Association)
A woman from Hull has run more than 200 miles in seven days around the city “fuelled by coffee, shortbread biscuits and sugary jelly” in support of people suffering from Motor Neurone Disease. On Wednesday, mum-of-three Clare Hackett finished her third challenge in three years for the MND Association, which involved running seven ultra marathons around Hull within a week.
Despite the chilly temperatures and harsh conditions, Clare was resolute to continue in solidarity with individuals living with MND – a disease that affects 5,000 people in the UK at any given time. Her challenges have been motivated by the late rugby league star Rob Burrow CBE, who passed away from MND in 2024, and his friend and ex-teammate Kevin Sinfield CBE, who will participate in his final 7 in 7 challenge on behalf of the MND community later this year.
During the week, Clare was cheered on by Craig Eskrett and his family, also from Hull, who were there to support her. Craig was diagnosed with MND in 2024.
Clare said: “It was amazing and I really didn’t want it to end! I ran for about nine hours each day, although some days it was nearer to 11 hours in total. I was fuelled by coffee, shortbread biscuits and sugary jelly!
“I think I ran on every street in Hull during the week and the messages I have received have been incredible.”
The MND Association’s Jenn Scribbins, who has been supporting Clare with her fundraising, said: “Clare is just incredible, she never stops and we are so grateful for her support. Thanks to Clare and her extraordinary efforts, the Association will be able to support more people with MND and fund even more research. To our community every penny matters.”
Later in the year, Clare is set to participate in her first London Marathon, along with the Manchester Marathon and the Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon. She’s also gearing up for her fourth 7 in 7 Challenge, planned for early 2027.
To donate, visit https://www.justgiving.com/page/clare-hackett-6