Sunderland commentator aiming to smash four-figure sum as he prepares for Great North Run

For a second successive year, singer and commentator Frankie Francis will participate in the Great North Run, raising vital funds for the Foundation of Light.

Well known among the fanbase for his on-screen matchday commentary with former Black Cat, Danny Collins, in September Frankie will switch the mic for a pair of trainers – aiming to surpass the £1000 landmark, after falling just short of that figure last year.

Despite being so close to raising a four-figure sum with running partner and friend Ryan in the 2021 event, Frankie is confident of ‘smashing’ last year’s total after adding a further two runners to the ranks. He said: “Myself and my running partner Ryan raised around £980 last year. This year, I've recruited two more pals so we should smash that £1000 target. Shoutout to Ryan Fromson, John Davidson and Anthony Boal, who are all dedicating time and effort.“

After running the Great North Run for Sunderland AFC’s official charity just under 12 months ago, Frankie was taken back by Foundation of Light’s life-changing work across the region. “The Foundation is a charity I am very proud of to work with as it does a lot of good in the community of Sunderland, working with people of all ages for many different reasons.”

Frankie and his troops may have a group target of raising £1000, however does the Sunderland commentator have a personal goal? He added: “I would love to do it in under two hours again and enjoy the classic route that I’ve never ran. Last year it was the covid route so it will be nice to finish in South Shields.”

You can support Frankie and his fellow runners by donating to his just giving page here.