Leeds police inspector completes epic 100km run visiting every station in district for mental health charity
Temporary Inspector Joe Addyman ran for 17 hours straight from Wetherby to Elland Road as part of an ambitious target to run 2,026 miles in 2026 for Thin Blue Line UK
A Leeds police officer has completed a gruelling 100km ultramarathon, visiting every police station across the district in a single day to support a vital police mental health charity.
Temporary Inspector Joe Addyman set off from Wetherby Police Station at 5am, navigating a massive route through Otley, Pudsey, Morley, Rothwell, Garforth, Killingbeck, Stainbeck, and Leeds Central.
He finally crossed the finish line at Leeds District HQ on Elland Road at 10pm after 17 hours on his feet.
PC Ben Maher also took on the challenge alongside him, but was forced to withdraw partway through after sustaining an injury.
Throughout the day, Addyman was cheered on by family, colleagues, and members of the public as he made his way across the city.
The 100km challenge forms the centrepiece of an ambitious year-long pledge by Addyman to run 2,026 miles over the course of 2026: a distance equivalent to running from Leeds to North Africa.
So far, his efforts have raised nearly £4,000 for Thin Blue Line UK, a charity run by serving and retired officers dedicated to supporting emergency service mental health and breaking down stigma around mental health challenges in policing.
"Policing is an inherently demanding profession, and the emotional and psychological pressures placed upon officers can be significant," said Joe. "Recent tragedies have had a profound impact on many of our colleagues, reminding us of the importance of looking after ourselves and one another.”
He continued: "The sense of loss felt when we lose colleagues is difficult to put into words. It reinforces the need for us to speak openly about our wellbeing, support those around us, and continue challenging the stigma that can prevent people from seeking help.
"Every mile completed is dedicated to raising awareness and funding for a charity that provides invaluable support to officers. Whatever it takes to reach that goal, I remain committed because the people who benefit from that support matter far more than the challenge itself."
Chief Inspector Jayne Maiden, who welcomed Joe at Elland Road at the end of his run, praised his dedication to the cause: "This was a truly inspiring achievement and a fitting milestone within what has already been an exceptional year of fundraising for Joe. It is particularly meaningful that the longest single challenge saw him visit police stations across Leeds District, highlighting both the scale of his commitment and the importance of the cause he is supporting.
“Joe's efforts have not only generated significant funds for Thin Blue Line UK, but have also helped raise awareness of the vital importance of mental health and wellbeing for our colleagues."