Doting mother inspired to run half marathon

Liz Allison (49), from Ightenhill, Burnley, will be taking part in the world’s biggest half marathon, the Great North Run, on September 15th.

Her aim is to raise as much money and awareness as possible for the National Autistic Society, after her son Kieron (20), was diagnosed with autism at the age of two.

The mother-of-four, who has worked at Sainsbury’s, in Colne, for the past three years, said: “I knew nothing about autism at all before having Kieron. It is quite frightening at first, because you don’t know what it is, and you don’t know what to expect.

“The National Autistic Society are always on the end of the phone, if I ever have any queries.”

Liz, who used to work at Burnley’s Shop Direct before its closure in 2010, has not run properly since her school days. However, having seen her husband complete the 13.1-mile route over the past four years, she decided it was the right time to step up to the challenge.

She prepared for the event by completing the Great Manchester 10K in May this year, and is being well supported by her family, friends and colleagues. She now hopes to raise £500 for her efforts.

She added: “I am a bit nervous and apprehensive, but I am looking forward to it.”

And David Boorman, head of Supporter fund-raising for The National Autistic Society, added: “Autism is often described as a ‘hidden’ condition, but it’s a lot more common than most of us might think, affecting more than one in 100 people in the UK.

“Without the amazing fund-raising efforts of inspirational people like Liz, we wouldn’t be able to continue our vital work supporting people affected by the disability and helping them to lead the life they choose.

“We can’t wait to cheer Liz and the rest of our Great North Run team to success on the day!”

To make a donation visit www.justgiving.com/Elizabeth-Allison