Liverpool’s race icon Alan Rothwell, Race Director of BTR Liverpool, is trading the clipboard for running shoes this weekend as he takes part in his final marathon – London Marathon on 27 April. But he won’t be running alone. Joining him on the start line for her very first marathon is his daughter Abbie Rothwell, making it a momentous milestone for the duo as they take on 26.2 miles together for charity.

Alan, 69, has played a central role in Liverpool’s running scene for decades, delivering headline events including the Liverpool Half Marathon and the much-loved Liverpool Santa Dash. Now, after 43 previous marathons, he’s lacing up one final time – and what better way to bow out than alongside his daughter in one of the world’s most prestigious races.

Abbie is marking her 30th birthday with a major challenge of her own – running her first marathon while fundraising for Claire House Children’s Hospice. The pair are hoping to raise £5,000 for the charity and have already had commemorative t-shirts printed to mark the occasion – ‘First’ for Abbie and ‘Last’ for Alan, in the style of Frankie Goes To Hollywood.

Alan’s running journey began during school cross country sessions and took off during the UK’s 1980s running boom, fuelled by the founding of the London Marathon and Great North Run. Alan says: “This is going to be the most special running moment for me – standing on the start line alongside Abbie.”

“We’ve kept each other going, I’m 17 years older than the last time I ran London, and this will definitely be my final marathon. Sharing it with Abbie is priceless. It’s a real family affair."

Abbie, inspired by her father and the running community around BTR Liverpool, completed the Liverpool Half Marathon in March and Mersey Tunnel 10K in April to prepare. “Watching my Dad organise races and run across the world has always inspired me,” she said. “Now I can’t wait to join him in one of the biggest races out there.”

All funds raised from their marathon effort will go to Claire House, which supports seriously ill children and their families in Liverpool, Wirral and beyond. Every donation helps to provide care, counselling and support when it’s needed most.

If you'd like to make a donation visit their fundraising page.

Image: BTR Liverpool