In September, ultramarathon runner and Freemason, Guy Smith set out on what would become one of the most remarkable endurance challenges seen in the Province of Northumberland. His mission was to run to every Masonic Temple across the Province in just four days, covering more than 200 miles, in support of Alzheimer’s Research UK. 

Guy began his journey on a Tuesday evening at Berwick Masonic Hall, immediately after attending a Lodge meeting. From there, he set off on a zig-zag route that would take him down the Northumberland coast, through North Tyneside, along the Tyne Valley, and if all went according to plan, finish in Haltwhistle at the end of the working week. 

Before setting out, Guy said: “I’ve mapped it at around 197 miles, but with fatigue, navigation challenges and the inevitable detours, it will break the 200-mile mark. I’ll be running through day and night, grabbing power naps where I can. It’s going to be tough, but I know why I’m doing it.” 

That determination had been forged over more than two decades of endurance events. His running journey began when he completed his very first Great North Run to raise money for the Children’s Heart Unit Fund, following a friend’s tragic loss. Since then, he had gone on to tackle multiple marathons, including the 100-mile Castle to Castle race from Bamburgh to Edinburgh, battling wind, rain and exhaustion. 

This time, though, his challenge was rooted in something much more personal. In January of this year, Guy lost his mother to Alzheimer’s, a disease that affects nearly one million people in the UK. 

Alzheimer’s Research UK are a charity helping provide an invaluable sense of hope to families in the UK affected by dementia. The Masonic Charitable Foundation (MCF, the Freemasons’ Charity) are proud to have partnered with them since 1994 and, in that time, have helped fund research that has revealed over 70 Alzheimer’s risk genes and developed techniques that have influenced scientists across the globe. 

The support Guy received during his challenge was overwhelming. Donations quickly surpassed his £5,000 target, and Guy’s determination shone through each mile. As he put it: “The support from people so far has been fantastic and I have already nearly £8,000. It might sound mad, but running has given me purpose, better health and a way to give back. This is about honouring my mum, raising awareness and hopefully inspiring others to push themselves for a cause they care about.” 

To donate, visit: https://www.gofundme.com/f/the-temple-run