SCHOOLMATES reunited to take on a challenge in memory of a late friend.

Nine former pupils of St Nicholas High School came back together to take on the Great North Run.

They did so in honour of Dom Johns, who took his own life earlier this year, aged 40.

“He was such a kind, caring, and loving person who brought happiness to everyone he met,” said Peter O’Connor, who had known Dom since their days at St Wilfrid’s Primary School.

“All of us had been friends with Dom for many years.

“He had done the Great North Run many times, so we decided to run it in his memory.”

Northwich Guardian: Around 60,000 runners took part in the Great North RunAround 60,000 runners took part in the Great North Run (Image: Peter O'Connor)

Nowadays Peter is living in Bristol working as CEO of a company called Target.

However, his parents and most of the group who took on the Great North Run still live in the Hartford, Rudheath, and Kingsmead areas of Northwich.

He was joined for the race by Emily Critchlow, Mark Blackham, Helen Blakemore, Ben Worstencroft, Jonny Moran, and Josh Fletcher-Curran.

Together they raised money for various charities, including Papyrus, Save the Children, Great North Air Ambulance and Campaign Against Living Miserably.

“It was great to do it all together and the atmosphere was brilliant with 60,000 runners and lots of people lining the streets,” added Peter.

“A number of us aren’t regular runners and due to various ailments hadn’t had the chance to do many runs before, but come race day powered through it and completed it – no mean feat in very hot conditions and with an undulating course.

“It was sad that Dom wasn’t there with us and after the race, to see Dom’s two kids and his partner Mel, was very emotional and brought home how much we all miss Dom and his beaming smile.”

Northwich Guardian: Dom lived in Davenham with his partner Mel and their two sonsDom lived in Davenham with his partner Mel and their two sons (Image: Peter O'Connor)

This year, the Great North Run took place on National Suicide Awareness Day, September 10.

Dom lived in Davenham and worked as a train manager at Manchester Piccadilly station.

He leaves behind two sons and his partner, Mel.

Peter added: “Dom was a son, brother, uncle, friend and much more. Dom is loved and missed by all.”