Brother and sister run in memory of their dad

Lucas Kavanagh, 11, and his sister Bethany, 10, have signed up for Child Bereavement UK’s Dash for Dad fun run at Runcorn Hill Park.

The event is on Father’s Day, June 18, and the siblings will be running in memory of their dad, John, 59, who died of cancer in February 2015.

Bethany and Lucas, from Runcorn, and attend Astmoor Primary School.

They’ve ran in the fun run for the past two years with older sisters Danielle and Sophie.

Since then they have both been receiving support at Child Bereavement UK’s centre on the High Street in Runcorn.

Bethany said: “I really enjoyed the run last year and I’m excited to see the new route around Runcorn Hill Park.

“Running in memory of my dad was special and made me feel proud. We raised £500 and won a medal so hopefully we can do the same this year.”

Lucas added: “In 2015 I didn’t want to do it at first because I normally have a lie in on Sundays.

“But I was glad in the end and really enjoyed it. Now I’m looking forward to doing it again this year on a new park.”

Child Bereavement UK supports families when a baby or child of any age dies or is dying, or when a child is facing bereavement.

The charity also trains professionals such as teachers and nurses to help them better understand the needs of grieving families in their working life.

Bereavement support lead Barry Lyonette said: “Dash for Dad is an event that provides the chance for bereaved families to come together on Father’s Day and run in memory of someone special to them who has died.

“Friendships are made and the children begin to realise that they are not alone. This feeling can be so reassuring for them.”

To sponsor Bethany and Lucas visit justgiving.com/fundraising/Danielle-Kavanagh3 To enter visit dashfordad.org.uk or just go to Runcorn Hill Park at 10am on Sunday, June 18.

For more information about the charity’s support, training, volunteering or fundraising visit childbereavementuk.org or call the Runcorn centre on 01928 577164.