Nine-year-old Blackpool boy runs 30 mile marathon in memory of uncle who killed himself

Jordan Banks completed his marathon challenge at Stanley Park in Blackpool on Saturday, alongside his stepdad Dan Begg.

The event, which Jordan completed over the course of a week, raised £2,320 for charity the celebrate what would have been the 30th birthday of Reece Begg, who killed himself on July 4 2019.

The 28-year-old had a history of depression and penned a long letter explaining his struggles before he died.

Jordan’s stepdad and Reece’s older brother Dan, 35, said: “Jordan and Reece were really close. They were always messing about.

“We knew it was Reece’s birthday coming up and we wanted to do something to remember Reece. Jordan suggested we could do something to do with running.”

Jordan, who is a pupil at Stanley Primary School, took up running with Dan last year during lockdown.

The mini Mo Farah developed a passion for the sport, and completed his first 10K just before Christmas.

He hoped to raise just £100 for Blackpool-based mental health service Counselling in the Community, which helps 110 clients each week.

His mum Danielle said: “Where we live lots of people are struggling with their mental health. Unfortunately lockdown and Covid-19 has added to this.

“We would never wish what we went through on another family. Reece is hugely missed. We know he would want us to be doing all we can to help others struggling. There is help out there... that's why it’s so important to keep these organisations open.”