SOAP star Christopher Chittell joined hundreds of hardy runners to take part in a race dedicated to the memory of tragic teenager David Staff.

David, whose parents Sue and Granville live in Carus Avenue, Hoddlesden, died while he was taking part in a road race five years ago. It was later discovered the 17-year-old fell victim to an irreversible, symptomless heart condition, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.

David's former club the Darwen Dashers have since held five fell runs in his memory and raised money for the charity CRY at the same time.

Emmerdale actor Christopher, who plays evil Eric Pollard, showed a softer side to his character before the five mile race which started at Sunnyhurst Woods in Darwen.

Christopher, who lives in Newark, Nottinghamshire, brought along several actor friends.

He revealed: "I usually run in marathons to raise money for Leukaemia Research but I did this as a favour to the Staffs.

"I met a young woman a few years ago who had leukaemia who made a big impression on me.

"She had lost a leg but that didn't stop her taking part in races but sadly she died. I was very impressed by her and ever since then I have tried to do my little bit for charity."

Christopher added: "Because of the sort of character I play in Emmerdale people are always a bit nervous when they come up to me.

"They don't know what to expect because I'm known as the bad guy and I like the humour you can get out of the situation.

"I have been running for years but not normally up hills like these guys." He said: "I first met Granville at Coniston along with his brother Ken and they suggested that I should come along with a few of my friends to have a go in the race.

"It was a good cause and it was nice to have the opportunity to do something for Granville and his family."

Sue Staff said: "This is the fifth race we have done for David and it is nice that people still remember him.

"We are just pleased that so many people have turned out despite the terrible weather.

"It only seems like yesterday to us that David died but it is nice to know he is still remembered by so many people."

The event was sponsored by Crown Paints of Darwen.

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