WINNER of last year’s St Helens 10k Matt Crehan is launching his own running shop next Wednesday, January 30 in the town centre.

The store is a lifelong dream for the 27-year-old from Newton-le-Willows.

He has chosen to open it next Wednesday to mark what would have been the 65th birthday of his dad, Olympic coach Jim Crehan.

Jim, who founded St Helens Striders, died from cancer in 2017.

The shop, called, Made to Run, is on College Street, next to Pets Emporium.

Matt’s shop will offer running gear, trainers and technology. It aims to become a hub for those interested in pounding the pavement.

Matt will be opening the store with the help of his mum, the 1988 Great British Olympian Susan Crehan.

Matt, who is chairman of St Helens Sutton AC, said: “St Helens has a huge connection with running, a history going as far back as our love of rugby league as some running clubs, like Sutton AC has been going since 1887.

“So it makes sense to open a place where the runners from this town can get the gear they need instead of going into Liverpool and Manchester.

“Running is my life, after I quit my job as a digital marketing manager in March to focus on my running, I worked at a running shop part time and loved it and was inspired to do this here.

“My mum will be bringing all her expertise to the business as well. She’s in her 60s now and has the experience of running at different stages of fitness and life and wants a big focus on making sure women and men alike have the correct gear to get the most out of running.

“Such as the right running bra and trainers as the wrong fit of either can cause damage.

“I would urge anyone, experienced runners, and those looking to start, to come by, have a chat, find the correct gear for you, even test out a pair of trainers, and see what we are about.”

Made to Run will launch at 6pm on Wednesday, January 30.