Three members of staff at a GP surgery in Ponteland will be taking part in the Geordieman triathlon.

The clinicians from Northumbria Primary Care's Ponteland Medical Group GP practice are taking on the challenge to raise funds for the Bright Northumbria Healthcare Charity.

The charity plays an essential role in improving patient care across Northumberland and North Tyneside.

Matthew ThomasMatthew Thomas (Image: Bright Northumbria Healthcare Charity)

Dr Matt Thomas, Dr Ruth Chalton, and practice nurse Carrie Collins are currently training for the Geordieman triathlon, which includes a 2.4-mile swim, 112-mile cycle, and 26.2-mile run through Druridge Bay Country Park on Sunday, September 1.

Dr Thomas said: "Participating in the Geordieman triathlon is not just about the challenge — it's also about coming together as a team to support a cause that we all care about.

Ruth ChaltonRuth Chalton (Image: Bright Northumbria Healthcare Charity)

"The work that Bright does directly impacts the lives of our patients and colleagues, and we see first-hand the difference it makes.

"By taking on this challenge, we hope to raise awareness and funds that will enable the charity to continue its valuable work."

Bright Northumbria Healthcare Charity funds projects that improve the patient experience and staff wellbeing at Northumbria Healthcare.

These projects include the renovation of the elderly care ward at the Northumbria Specialist Emergency Care Hospital, which provides adapted facilities for patients with dementia, and the introduction of mothers' expressing rooms across the trust for staff returning to work from maternity leave.

Ruth Chalton and Carrie CollinsRuth Chalton and Carrie Collins (Image: Bright Northumbria Healthcare Charity)

Robert Graham, head of Bright Charity, said: "We are incredibly grateful to the Northumbria Primary Care team for their dedication to raising funds for Bright Charity.

"Their participation in the Geordieman triathlon highlights the strong community spirit within Northumbria Healthcare.

"The funds they raise will make a significant difference in the lives of our patients and staff by supporting our future projects."

The team has set up a fundraising page where supporters can contribute to their cause.

All proceeds will go directly to Bright Charity, helping to fund projects that enhance the quality of care provided across Northumbria Healthcare.

For more information about their participation and to donate, please visit the team's JustGiving page.