FAMILIES wearing yellow ribbons cheered in support of missing Madeleine McCann as they set off for this year’s Summer Fun Run.

A capacity 1,000 runners signed up to take part in the event, organised by the Crosby Herald and Great Crosby Catholic Primary School.

Marina and Kenny Dalglish sounded the siren to start the runners and walkers off and Everton striker Victor Anichebe was among the crowds of people cheering runners taking part.

Money raised will go to the Marina Dalglish Appeal and Jospice, Thornton.

Marina Dalglish said: “I loved hooting the horn to start the run – it was great fun. I have been looking forward to doing that again since last year.

“Thank you to everyone who took part, I hope they enjoyed the day as much as myself and Kenny.

“It was very touching when the runners set off clapping and waving their ribbons in support of the McCann family.”

Spectators in Crosby village gave runners a round of applause as they made their way along Moor Lane and Don’t You (Forget About Me) by Simple Minds, the adopted anthem of the Find Madeleine campaign, was played.

Mark McQueen, headteacher of Ursuline Primary School is godfather to Madeleine’s brother, Sean. His wife Linda is currently in Portugal with Kate and Gerry McCann.

He said: “We appreciate the support from everyone who took part in the Summer Fun Run, for 1,000 runners to wear a yellow ribbon must have looked amazing. It is also a reminder that Madeleine is still not found and it keeps her in people’s thoughts.”

The event on Sunday also marked the 25th running of the ‘Crosby 10’. Dennis Gill and Nick Sinclair have both taken part in all of the events.

All those who took part in the 10-mile run were presented with a special silver medal commemorating the anniversary.

The winner of the three-mile fun run was 14-year-old Sacred Heart pupil Dan Ashcroft with John Woods in second place.

Mr Woods said: “I would like to dedicate my second place to Dave Hughes at The Crow’s Nest. He delivers the best pint of Cains on Merseyside.”

Winner of the 10-mile race was Richard Shearer with Mel Spence the first woman to finish.

l For more on the Summer Fun Run see page 16, your free 16-page supplement for pictures, results and times, and see www.iccrosby.co.uk for a photo gallery from the day