Charity run to remember murdered schoolboy Rhys Jones
Written by News on 27/08/2017
The family of Rhys Jones is launching a fun run to mark 10 years since his death and help fund a community centre aimed at keeping youngsters out of gangs.
Rhys, 11, was shot dead on 27 August 2007 by a sixteen-year-old gang member who was aiming at members of a rival gang.
To mark the anniversary of his death, the community centre set up in his memory has organised Run for Rhys.
Speaking to Sky News, Rhys’ father, Steve Jones, said: "I think sometimes you look back on it and think, ‘How did we get through all that stuff?’
"Certainly in the early days of the aftermath of the murder and obviously going to trial.
"I sometimes can’t believe it myself that we’re here 10 years later."
Run for Rhys participants will be allowed to choose from three distances – 1 mile, 3km or 5km – and sponsorship money will be used to fund the Rhys Jones Community Centre CIC.
The centre has become an important hub in the Croxteth area for young people, offering them creative outlets and space to play football.
"We had fantastic support from Everton as a club. We had support from Liverpool as a club as well, and obviously the local people that go and use Rhys’ community centre, they’ve supported it as well," Mr Jones said.
Former Everton player and club ambassador Ian Snodin will attend the new legacy fun run on Sunday to celebrate Rhys’ life.
Snodin said: "Everyone at Everton was deeply affected 10 years ago upon hearing about the passing of Rhys Jones and it’s a heartbreak which is still felt by the city of Liverpool.
"The Jones’ will always be part of the Everton family and we’d encourage all football fans to take part in the fun run. No matter your age or ability, there is a run for you to enter."
Mr Jones said: "We just want to try and steer the youth of today away from getting involved in any gangs and guns and try to give them something positive to do in the community."
(c) Sky News 2017: Charity run to remember murdered schoolboy Rhys Jones
