'Why I'm running for Carra'
A Liverpool runner is to compete in the city's marathon later this year for Jamie Carragher's 23 Foundation in an attempt to raise money to help children redirect their 'negative energy'.
Natalie Hogan will take part in the event in October in memory of a friend killed by teenagers four years ago.
Michael Harrison was attacked as he cycled home. He was hit in the head by a schoolboy, who was later jailed for six years as part of a manslaughter plea.
Natalie will now take up the Run Liverpool Marathon on Sunday, October 9 on behalf of Carragher's 23 Foundation.
The 23-year-old said: "I work at Sefton Council in their sports department.
"As part of the Positive Futures programme I have spent some time with children around Bootle helping them get into other activities like football, swimming, playing XBox.
"And you begin to realise pretty quickly they are just normal children who maybe haven't had the same opportunities as other people.
"Very often they feel forced into committing these crimes by other people and they don't always get the best support from home.
"I'm not saying that charity work could have prevented Michael's murder but maybe by getting some of these children off the street we can redirect their negative energy into something more positive."
Carragher added: "There's no set figure but we want to get as many people as we can that will help us make more money for the charity.
"The money is going to help people in our local community and we want it to be a community effort from everyone."
The 23 Foundation has been named as an official charity for the Liverpool Marathon - and now they're looking for a 'Team of Carraghers' to run the race in their name.
The marathon spans 26.2 miles - starting in Birkenhead Park and finishing in front of the world famous Liver Buildings.
The 23 Foundation are hoping to get 300 runners to compete in the event and help raise £100,000 for charity.
They'll be asking each member of the 'Team of Carraghers' to secure £500 in sponsorship for the race.
And, as an added incentive for fundraisers, a number of prizes are on offer including two limited edition 23 Foundation Tag Heuer watches (only 23 made) for the top two fundraisers, as well as a selection of signed merchandise.
Cathy Elliott, chief executive of the 23 Foundation, said: "We're thrilled to be involved with the Run Liverpool Marathon.
"The funds raised by our runners will be used to provide the youth of Merseyside with the means to make a difference in society by giving them an outlet through football and sport.
"All funds will distributed as grants to voluntary sector groups and charities across Merseyside working with local young people."
To apply to join the 'Team of Carraghers' and run the Liverpool Marathon, click here>>