Choirmaster takes on 30-mile Tyne Valley run

The feat of endurance will benefit the Cathedral Choirs Association, which supports all four choirs at St Nicholas'.

As well as the main boys' choir, which performs at four services a week, the new girls' choir sings once a week.

There is also a Saturday morning choir which is part of the cathedral's outreach programme and is made up of children aged 7-14.

Meanwhile, the cathedral consort gives former choir members a way of staying connected with the church and comprises mostly of sixth formers and university students.

Mr Stoddart, who became the director of music at the cathedral in January, said: "I have been wanting to do something to raise some money but also to raise the profile of the choir.

"I started running about nine months ago and I've got the bug. It will enable children to sing in one of our four choirs and pay for things like transport to concerts, tours and so on. It could also go towards making a CD."

Mr Stoddart, 47, of Fenham, said the youngsters produced some fantastic music and he hoped the run would put them in the spotlight.

"The great thing about children's choirs is that it is something children can own and get recognition for," he said.

"In terms of getting involved with their church, they can do something to a pretty professional standard.

"I just want to show people the fantastic music we have here." Mr Stoddart is set to do the run on July 4 and 5. At the end of his run, he will have no time to rest, as he will arrive just in time for a rehearsal for Choral Evensong.

From Hexham to Prudhoe, Michael will be joined by Rev Dr Dagmar Winter, the diocesan rural affairs officer and Priest in charge of Kirkwhelpington.

Mr Stoddart is appealing for sponsors and for anyone who would like to join him for a leg of the journey. He can be contacted on (0191) 261 4505 or email at directorofmusic@stnicnewcastle.co.uk