MARATHON man Mike Holmes was 69 years-old when he pulled on his running shoes.

But in a bid for a more active lifetstyle the retired HGV long distance driver from Pocket Nook started going to the gym and at the age of 70 successfully completed the Liverpool Half Marathon raising £550 for Cancer UK in the process.

“I intend to do the Liverpool run again next year,” said Mike, who chose to support Cancer UK because his wife, Betty’s, first husband died from cancer as did Mike’s sister.

Mike is pictured wearing his marathon medal and T-shirt and being congratulated by grateful members of the Cancer UK team at their St Helens office in Westfield Street.

Mike says he is grateful to Betty Yates and the team at FINTRA tenants and residents group at Fingerpost who printed sponsorship forms and made a generous donation, and to Holy Cross Catholic Club as well as Parr Gym and Leisure Centre members plus family, friends and neighbours for their support.