AMONG the 2,000 runners taking part in this weekend’s St Helens 10k many have their own tales of strength in the face of adversity.

One is a former winner at the Pride of St Helens Awards, Liam Burbridge, who lost his left leg below the knee following a motorbike accident in 2013.

The 22-year-old father-of-two from Clock Face will be one of 42 people running on behalf of AIM, (Amputation Inspiration Motivation) a charity set up by Andy Reid and Stephen Cruse.

Both men went on to found AIM after suffering life-changing injuries.

Andy lost both legs and right arm while serving in Afghanistan while Steve had both legs amputated below the knee following a traffic accident in Australia in 2008.

Liam said both men have inspired him to do the 10k through their strength of character.

He will line up alongside 36-year-old Steve after more than two months of rigorous training.

Liam said they have been put through their paces by Grant Williams from St Helens College and members of British Military Fitness with sessions in Sefton Park.

Liam, who will be running on a normal prosthetic leg, said: “Because I have drawn inspiration from them it has made me want to help other people. When I had my amputation in 2013 they both came to see me in the hospital.

“They have helped me a lot and their inspiration has spurred me on. And because of the work I have done with them they made me an ambassador at Christmas.

“I want to show I was worthy of being the ambassador and I could be an inspiration not just because I’ve had a leg amputated but because I’m out there doing things.