THE family of a tragic Kilwinning teenager are urging people to take part in their annual charity run in his memory.

Craig Kirkwood, was mowed down and killed five years ago after a disturbance at Irvine Beach Park.

The 17-year-old, described as a “role model” to his family and friends, died after suffering serious internal injuries after Martin Stewart, 25, drove into him near Irvine Beach in Ayrshire in June 2010. He was jailed for more than five years.

Since his senseless death his parents Colin and Alison have organised a charity run from Craig’s beloved Ibrox to Kilwinning Sports Club where he played for KSC Whitehirst.

In previous years the event has attracted more than 100 people each time and the family, with the help of friends and the community, have managed to raise an incredible £65,000 for various charities.

This year’s run will take place on Saturday, May 9 and will begin at Ibrox Stadium and finish up at the sports club in Pennyburn Road, covering a total of 27 miles.

Craig’s dad Colin says he is hoping this year’s will be even bigger and better than ever.

He said: “We are hoping even more people will come out this year. We get a fantastic response every year from Craig’s friends and family but we are hoping more people will get involved this year.

“We have mixed it up a bit this year too so that anyone who is taking part can choose their own charity and half of any money they raise will go to their chosen charity and the other half will go to the Brick by Brick Appeal which is supported by the Rangers Charity Foundation.” This year Colin will be completing the full 27 miles from Glasgow through Paisley, Johnstone, Kilbarchan, Lochwinnoch, Kilbirnie, Glengarnock, Dalry and finally the sports club in Pennyburn for the first time, said: “The last two year’s I did the half marathon, but this year I will be doing the whole thing and I’m trying to convince the rest of Craig’s teammates from KSC Whitehirst to do it with me.

“A few have said they’ll try so hopefully they’ll support me and they’ll be a big group of us doing the full marathon. The other thing worth mentioning is that it’s not just for runners. We have walkers and cyclists too and a few people plan on cycling half then running half. And you can do any distance 5k, 10k, etc. We even have kids who get sponsored to run the final mile. Over the four years we’ve raised over £65,000. A fantastic amount.” Colin says Craig would be amazed at the amazing work being done in his name.

He told the Times: “I think Craig would be amazed and proud that so much money has been raised in his memory. I think he would probably be amazed that his dad has been able to complete some of these challenges because I wasn’t always very fit, so I think that would have surprised him.

“It’s good for myself and Alison to have this to focus on and it gives us a chance to catch up with all of Craig’s friends who we might not see as much anymore. It’s a source of comfort for us.”