Merseyside police officers Neil Doyle and Dave Phillips remembered at run

A memorial run for Merseyside police officers Neil Doyle and Dave Phillips has been hailed a huge success.

The run, now in its third year, was started by Mark Hobin to remember the officers as well as raise money for COPS.

Mark, who worked alongside the men, approached the officers’ family before starting the event, which has proved extremely popular.

Survivor Sarah Doyle, wife of PC Neil Doyle, said it was about remembering Neil and Dave as well as giving something back to the charity.

“COPS was a lifesaver for me when I needed it,” she said. “The support I got from the charity meant so much.”

She said that last year’s run had to be done virtually so there was a lot of people looking forward to this year’s event.

“This year the run was a physical event as well as online,” she said.

“We had people in America taking part, as well as in Scotland and Cornwall – we also had people travelling from far and wide to come and take part in person.

“It was an emotional day, we’re all there for a reason but it was also fun.

“I walked it with my dog and some good friends, and it was nice just to see people, to catch up and chat. It’s such an amazing experience and you get such a sense of community.”

The challenge was at Riverside Police Club in Liverpool (or virtually) and people could walk, jog, run, or cycle 8.3 miles (13.3km).

£1,000 was raised for COPS.