RUNNERS joined a dash for dad fun run and raised thousands of pounds for Child Bereavement UK.

It was a poignant day for two teenagers as it was exactly a year to the day since they both lost their dads.

Ben Graham and Alisha Shepherd, both aged 15, joined 80 people for the run in Phoenix Park, Castlefields on Father's Day.

Ben’s dad, Phil died on June 21 last year after experiencing heart problems.

Alisha’s dad, Mark died on the same day from cancer.

Alisha, from Widnes, a pupil at SS Peter and Paul Catholic College, said: “The charity has really helped me during the past year.

“This is something I really wanted to do.

“Coming up to the anniversary of my dad’s death has been tough but this has helped to give me a focus.”

Ben, from Warrington, said: “The past year has been tough but this charity has helped make it a little bit easier.

“Running at dash for Dad has been something I’ve looked forward to.”

Danielle Kavanagh, aged 24, from Castlefields ran in memory of her dad, John who died in February.

She said:”We wanted to raise money and help raise awareness about the charity to show our support.

“We are not a very fit family but we really enjoyed it.”

Her eight-year-old sister, Bethany, and brother Lucas, aged nine, also took part.

Bethany said: “It’s the first time I’ve done a run like this and I feel proud.

“I’m going to take my medal to school.”

Lucas added: “I really enjoyed it and might do it again next year.

“It was worth it to make my dad proud.”

The Mayor and Mayoress of Halton, Cllr Ellen Cargill and her consort and husband, Dave presented the medals.

Jonathan Evans, regional fundraising and communications officer at the charity, said: “We had a great day.

“We would like to say a huge thank you to everyone who came along.”