AN Altrincham man with learning difficulties and cerebral palsy is gearing up for a challenge of a lifetime – all in memory of his late father.

Owen Allwright, 32, has taken on a mammoth task of running the Greater Manchester Run on Sunday May 28.

Preparing for a 10k is difficult for most but Owen has had additional hurdles to overcome, as he has learning difficulties, as well as cerebral palsy and epilepsy.

Bowdon-born Owen, who moved to Altrincham when he finished college and now lives in supported housing with two other men with disabilities, has dedicated himself to running for the past five months.

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Owen Allwright will be taking on the Greater Manchester Run on May 28

He has been running regularly at the 5k Park Run in Longford Park, Stretford, since January and he has now set his sights on doubling this distance at next week’s event.

Mum Jenny Allwright said Owen loves achieving a personal best (PB) but his motivation is not just beating the clock.

Owen decided to embark on his running journey to honour his father, who died three years ago from pancreatic cancer.

Jenny said: “Owen’s dad was a real athlete, he loved cycling, rugby, athletics, etc. Owen was inspired by his dad’s passion and has really taken to running, even though he finds it difficult to balance and can often fall over.”

Owen decided to raise money for Cancer Relief in memory of his late father, and has also chosen to raise funds for Trafford Mencap through the sponsored run.

Messenger Newspapers: Owen Allwright will be taking on the Greater Manchester Run on May 28

Owen has been a regular runner at Longford Park's Park Run and mum Jenny said his fellow runners have been incredibly supportive

Trafford Mencap is a charity which creates opportunities for people with learning difficulties and has provided support to Owen and his friends over the years.

Owen, who was recently taken on at Altrincham Market as a server, has already raised £600 for the two charities and is hoping to boost his funds before next Sunday’s race.

And mum Jenny thinks Owen has what it takes to reach the finish line.

“I am incredibly proud of Owen,” she said. “His courage and determination is humbling. To be honest, I think we were a bit optimistic when we started on the on the 10k training - he really does find it extremely hard.

“However, having come this far, I’ve no doubt Owen will complete the 10k, even if he has to do it on all fours.”

To make a donation to Owen’s cause, visit justgiving.com/fundraising/Owen-Allwright.