A ROCK'n'Roll 5k helped Susan Dowden raise more than £1,000 for a Runcorn-based charity helping children with cerebral palsy.

The 35-year-old from Liverpool, who has cerebral palsy, has raised £1,800 for Stick 'n' Step, which provides conductive education classes for children and young people at its centres in Runcorn and Wallasey.

She set herself the goal last year of taking part in this year's Rock 'n' Roll Liverpool 5k, which represented a huge challenge for her.

While researching local cerebral palsy charities she came across Stick 'n' Step and visited the Wallasey centre, along with her personal trainer Scottie Hamilton, who owns Scottie's Gym in Bootle.

Overwhelmed by what she saw young people achieving with the support of conductive education, she became determined to raise as much money as possible for the charity.

Susan said: "Having cerebral palsy myself I've always wanted to stay active and push myself but I knew the ultimate challenge would be running.

"Both Scottie and his son Lewis have guided and supported me throughout my training and have been there for me through my laughter and tears.

"My first major achievement was running 150 metres without stopping.

"That may seem like nothing but to me it was a huge thing and it was what made me sign up for the Liverpool Rock n Roll 5k in May.

"My aim was to run the race in an hour and I completed it in 1hr 47 seconds, which I am extremely proud of.

"I even got a medal, which meant the world to me as I’ve never had a medal in my life!

"It was a pleasure to visit the Stick 'n' Step Wallasey centre with my coach Scottie and see the wonderful work the charity does.

"I hope my journey inspires others to not hide behind their insecurities or let them hold you back, as anything is possible if you put your mind to it and believe in yourself."

Head of fundraising at Stick'n'Step Jenny Snell said: "Our work is all about encouraging young people with cerebral palsy to achieve their personal potential.

"Taking part in this 5k was a massive undertaking for Susan.

"We were delighted for her that she completed the run and so pleased that she has chosen to support us in this way."

If you'd like to take on a challenge for Stick ‘n’ step yourself email fundraising@sticknstep.org.

Stick 'n' Step offers support services to children with cerebral palsy and their families.

It gives totally free of charge conductive education sessions, allowing children to gain the skills they need to live independent lives.

More than 90 children from across the region now attend these sessions weekly.