A COUPLE from Coalpit Heath are planning their 36th annual fundraising event in memory of their son.

Deanna and Pete Liddington are holding a 12-mile circular fundraising walk around Yate to raise money for Muscular Dystrophy UK after losing their only son to the disease.

David was diagnosed with the Duchenne strain of muscular dystrophy at the age of three after his parents noticed he kept falling over.

"It was little things but collectively we knew something wasn’t quite right," said Mrs Liddington.

"He was diagnosed very quickly. There is no history of muscular dystrophy in our families but we made the decision not to have any more children."

David lived until he was 22, losing his battle in 1995. During his life, the family received respite care when David was taken on holiday by the Tavistock branch of Muscular Dystrophy UK.

"David would wake up 20 times in a night because he couldn’t turn himself over," said Mr Liddington. "If we got two hours sleep that was good so families really need a break."

The couple have remained active supporters of the charity ever since and have raised around £400,000 through pedal car grand prix, various races on vehicles including a Viking shop and a 14-seater tricycle and parachute jumps.

For many years they have organised a walk for families to enjoy. This year it takes place on Saturday, July 14 (11am) from Shire Way Community Centre in Yate. All are welcome to take part and enjoy live music and food afterwards.

The family is also organising a charity golf day in Thornbury on August 31.

To book a place on either event call Deanna and Pete Liddington on 01454 774625 or Doug Churchill on 01454 880339.