Ex-Liverpool players to run 5km in memory of Hillsborough victims

Former Liverpool star Chris Kirkland (pictured with Jamie Carragher) said the Run for the 97 was "incredibly special" [Paul Francis Cooper/BTR Liverpool] Two former Liverpool footballers Jamie Carragher and Chris Kirkland are among the runners taking part in a race to celebrate the lives of fans who died as a result of the Hillsborough disaster. More than 1,400 runners are signed up to this year's BTR Run For The 97. The annual event - now in its 12th year - was set up to honour the 97 Liverpool football fans who died following the Hillsborough tragedy in 1989.

The club's former goalkeeper Kirkland said was "incredibly special" to take part in the race. More than 100 virtual runners have also registered, including international participants taking part Australia, Canada, Demark, Germany, Hong Kong, Singapore, and the USA. Hillsborough family members and justice campaigners Margaret Aspinall, Steve Kelly, and Sue Roberts have all been involved since the event began.

Since it was first staged, Run For The 97 has helped to raise over £45,000 for good causes in the city. Alan Rothwell, BTR Liverpool Founder, said: "Run For The 97 is an incredibly special event, and we invite people to join us to walk, jog, or run to remember The 97. Hillsborough is something that as a city and football supporters, red and blue, we will never forget.

" Timings The 5km (3. 1 mile) fun run starts at 09:30 BST followed by the 1 mile run at approximately 10:30. The route The 5km route takes runners through Stanley Park.