A RUNNING club has paid tribute to their founder who died in August aged 87.

St Helens Striders was founded in 1984 by retired miner Jim Crehan from Parr.

He started running after seeing the joy his daughter-in law Susan Crehan – a 1988 Great British Olympian - and his son Jim Crehan - an Olympic coach - got out of it.

He then decided to set up the club as a running and drinking group for his fellow ex-miners to keep them busy after the mines began to be shut down.

The club has since gone from strength to strength and its members, including Jim’s grandson Matthew, have now paid tribute to Jim with a plaque in the club.

Matthew said: “With my mum competing at the Olympics and my dad being an Olympic coach and good county athlete, running was part of family and then my grandad took it up after he retired from the pit.

“He spread his love for the sport by founding St Helens Striders, which is something I’m really proud of and has left an impressive legacy within the St Helens running community.”

Jim was known as a unique character who was often seen running with his trusted Border Collie, Judi by his side.

He also got a name for himself after placing third in his age group for a triple long jump with a distance on 6.97 meters.

Chairman of the club Lisa Worsley added: “Although I did not know Jim personally, his story certainly embodies the Strider spirit that prevails in the club today.

“The club may have around 180 members now, which is a far cry from the club that Jim started with his friends in 1984, but the values of achievement and enjoyment in running remain strongly embedded.

“St Helens Striders is a running club that encourages runners of all abilities to achieve their running goals and enjoy themselves along the way.

“We are very proud of Jim’s legacy and will continue to try and inspire others the way he has inspired us.”

The group currently train on Mondays and Wednesdays, at Windleshaw Sports Centre from 6.50pm.