Portcullis GP Dr Jenny Hartley becomes first woman to complete brutal 268-mile Pennine Way race

Huge congratulations to Dr Jenny Hartley, GP at Portcullis Surgery in Ludlow and former soldier, who recently completed the Montane Summer Spine Race – one of the UK's toughest endurance events.

Covering the entire 268-mile Pennine Way from Derbyshire to the Scottish Borders, the race took Jenny less than four and a half days to complete. Remarkably, despite her longest previous run being 78 miles (126km).

Often described by organisers as “Britain’s most brutal race”, the Spine challenges competitors to navigate some of the country's most spectacular yet demanding landscapes, including the Yorkshire Dales, Hadrian’s Wall, Northumberland National Park and the Cheviot Hills.

Participants face days of continuous running with minimal rest, having to be self-sufficient, tackling exposed moorland, rugged terrain and unpredictable weather conditions along the way.

Jenny’s colleagues at Portcullis Surgery rallied behind her throughout the challenge, providing plenty of homemade, carbohydrate-packed treats on her return and helping to patch up her weary feet.

Crediting her success to “sheer bloody mindedness” and focusing on eating, drinking, and resting, Jenny said: “I’m really proud – I only signed up four weeks before the race and had not really known what to expect! I’d like to thank my lovely colleagues and patients who have sent their good wishes and support – as well as the cake.”

Jenny crossed the finish line as the sixth competitor overall and was the first female runner to complete the course – an extraordinary achievement. Congratulations, Jenny!