Death of charity running legend Jarra Jim, 96
GREAT North Run legend and popular charity fundraiser Jarra Jim has died at the age of 96.
The Second World War veteran took up running at the age of 65 following the death of his wife Betty, and completed numerous races including 29 Great North Runs and 12 London Marathons.
Unassuming Jim, real name Jim Purcell, raised hundreds of thousands of pounds for local charities through his selfless exploits.
The charity runner was rewarded for his selfless exploits by carrying the Olympic flame through Wallsend in 2012 ahead of the London Games.
Now, the Great Run Company - the organisers of the world’s favourite half marathon have paid tribute to the legendary fundraiser.
A spokesperson for the company said: “We are extremely saddened to hear that Great North Run legend, ‘Owld Jarra Jim’ Purcell, has passed away aged 96. For many years, Jim was one of the event’s most popular local runners.”
South Tyneside Council hosted a civic reception in January 2016 to honour the Second World War veteran.
Brendan Foster said: “Like everyone at Great Run, I was extremely saddened to hear about Jim’s passing. He’s been a big part of the event for over 30 years and I’ve got a tremendous amount of respect for the fact he was in his 60s when he took it on for the first time. Jim truly embodied the spirit of the Great North Run, which celebrates ordinary people doing extraordinary things, I’m sure his legacy will be inspiring runners of all ages for a long time to come.’
The Mayor of South Tyneside, Coun Olive Punchion said: “We are saddened to hear of the loss of Jim Purcell, fondly known as ‘Jarra Jim.’
“He was an outstanding individual who’s tremendous charity work supported people across the Borough and the wider region.
“Jim was dedicated to Jarrow and the Great North Run and made an amazing contribution to the local community through his work with the church, his fundraising for charity and his other tireless voluntary work.”