5k run raises around £5k for James Bulger charity

Organisers of the first fund-raising event for James Bulger Memorial Trust say they hope it will net more than £5000 for the new charity.

Around 500 runners joined-in a fun run in the grounds of Knowsley Hall on Sunday to mark what would ould have been the 21st birthday of James who was murdered in 1993.

The 5km race saw more than 490 runners taking part - including some who travelled from the USA and Canada. It was followed by a toddler trot with more than 30 youngsters taking part.

Before the start mother-of-three Denise, 43, and her husband Stuart, 35, led runners and supporters in a one-minute round of applause in tribute to James, who should have celebrated his birthday last Wednesday.

Smiling Denise said: “We are absolutely thrilled and delighted to that so many people gave up their time to join in this event. It is very encouraging and heart-warming to see the level of support and it was good to have a happy event to help us mark James' birthday.

"We want to make this an annual event to celebrate James' birthday and I can only see it getting bigger and better."

Run organiser Nicky Kelly, from Spital, paid tribute to all those who took part.

Mother-of-two, Nicky, 35, said: “I am so happy that we were able to stage this event and to give James a special day when people came together to remember him in a happy way.

"Seeing so many the people turning-out demonstrated to Denise that James will never be forgotten.”

The aim of the James Bulger Memorial Trust has been set-up to provide holidays and respite breaks for young victims of crime and bullying and to reward children who work for the good of others or show exemplary courage.

Further events are being planned a £5 a head "Cabaret Night for James" on 1st April at the Sylvestrian Club in Kirkdale, Liverpool, and a "Karting for James" day in July.

Charity volunteers and event organisers are encouraged to offer their support via www.forjames.org

*The James Bulger Memorial Trust has applied for registration with the Charity Commission.

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