Publish date: 10 April 2026
On a blustery Sunday in March, Mersey Care consultant Clinical Psychologist, Katie Pownell and Commissioning Case Manager working in the PROSPECT LPC Team, Robert Kelly, took part in one of Liverpool’s most famous road races - the Liverpool Half Marathon. The were joined by Kevin Lloyd, John Cheal, Harvey Boot and finally, Thanat Kornsuphkit, who took part remotely due to being unable to travel because of conflict in the Middle East. Together they raised an incredible £1,300 for our services.
Despite the challenging weather, the event in its 33rd year saw streets packed with supporters, cheering on the 12,544 people taking part.
Katie and Robert were among 12,169 runners who crossed the finish line, and both were ecstatic to collect their winner’s medal.
“The race was great, despite the weather,” said Katie, who was making a return to road racing following a hiatus following the COVID pandemic. “It was brilliant to get back racing and the support from local clubs, friends, and family, was fantastic, with many standing in torrential rain and high winds for hours to cheer people on.”
For Robert, it was his first half marathon and a huge achievement, considering he signed up on a whim after experiencing the buzz of the city on the morning of the race last year.
“The Liverpool Half Marathon experience was absolutely electric, it was incredible,” he said. “The whole city was buzzing. It was so nice to really take in how beautiful Liverpool is while running the course.”
Despite having no previous running experience when he signed up, Robert joined a community running club and gradually built up his training over the year, ultimately smashing his target.
“It was tough being my first half marathon, but I loved every second of it. My aim was to finish in under two hours, so I’m thrilled with my time of 1 hour 42 minutes!”
And he’s already looking ahead to next year.
“I can’t wait for next year now — I’m aiming for 1 hour 30. Thank you to everyone who sponsored me. I raised over £400 for Mersey Care.”
Also taking part in event for Mersey Cares was Kevin Lloyd, John Cheal and Harvey Boot. Together they raised an incredible amount, and we are so grateful for their support.
A special mention goes to Thanat Kornsuphkit, who completed the marathon remotely due to being unable to get a flight to Liverpool because of the conflict in the Middle East.
“I am delighted that I was still able to complete the half marathon remotely and support Mersey Cares despite not being able to travel, he said. “The organisers kindly allowed me to participate remotely. I completed the run from Bangkok, Thailand. This event means a lot to me, especially because Liverpool is a city that I truly admire and always look forward to visiting. Thank you for the incredible work your team continues to do.”
From all of us at Mersey Cares, thank you so much to our amazing Liverpool Half Marathon team 2026, and to everyone who supported and donated – you really make such a difference and we couldn’t do what we do without you.
If you want to support their achievement with a donation you can do so here: The Mersey Care NHS Charity: BTR Liverpool Half & 10-miler 2026
Want to know where the money raised will go? Take a look at our jam-packed latest Impact Report
Feeling inspired? Come and join us for a Mersey Cares fundraiser! We’ve a range of challenges on offer and are looking for people to support us. You are also able to fundraise for your service – meaning you can help bring to life projects to benefit your patients and service users.
Upcoming Events
Mersey Tunnel 10k – 12 April 2026
Skydive to support Mental Health Awareness Week – 16 May 2026
Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge – 6 June 2026
The Port Sunlight 10K and 5K event - 7 June 2026
NHS Big Tea - Monday 29 June - 10 July 2026
London to Paris Cycle for ZSA – 22 July 2026
Snowdon at Night 2026 – 1 August 2026
Northern Lights Trek Challenge – February 2027
Thank you for making a difference.
