A Leeds police inspector completed a 100km run between every police station across the Leeds district in a single day last week, in aid of a charity supporting mental health in policing.
Temporary Inspector Joe Addyman set off from Wetherby Police Station at 5am on Monday 27 July 2026, calling in at Otley, Pudsey, Morley, Rothwell, Garforth, Killingbeck, Stainbeck and Leeds Central before finishing at Leeds District HQ on Elland Road at 10pm — a run of around 17 hours.
Another officer, PC Ben Maher, also took on the challenge alongside Addyman, but had to withdraw partway through due to injury. Addyman was supported throughout the day by his sister, colleagues and members of the public, many of whom came out to cheer him on as he made his way through the district.
The run forms part of a wider year-long fundraising effort for Thin Blue Line UK, with Addyman aiming to run 2,026 miles over the course of 2026 — roughly the distance from Leeds to North Africa. So far, he has raised almost £4,000 for the charity, which is run by serving and retired police officers and is dedicated to supporting the mental health and wellbeing of those working in policing, and helping to break the stigma often associated with mental health challenges.
A demanding profession
T/Insp Addyman said: “Policing is an inherently demanding profession, and the emotional and psychological pressures placed upon officers can be significant. 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 added: “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.”
He continued: “In 2026, I am aiming to run 2,026 miles in support of Thin Blue Line UK. 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.”
An inspirng achievement
Chief Inspector Jayne Maiden, who supported Addyman’s initiative and was among those welcoming him at Elland Road when he completed the challenge, said: “This was a truly inspiring achievement and a fitting milestone within what has already been an exceptional year of fundraising for Joe.”
She added: “It is particularly meaningful that the longest single challenge within his fundraising efforts saw him visit police stations across Leeds District, highlighting both the scale of his commitment and the importance of the cause he is supporting. The encouragement he received from colleagues and members of the public throughout the day demonstrates the positive impact his determination and dedication have had on those around him.”
She continued: “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 of our colleagues in policing.”
She added: “I am incredibly proud of Joe and everything he has achieved so far. His commitment is having a positive impact across our policing family and the communities we serve. Mental health in policing is an issue that affects us all, and it is essential that we continue to talk openly about it, support one another, and ensure that those affected, along with their families, receive the understanding and assistance they need.”
