Jack's mum says thanks to generous Wiganers

Joining Jack has announced the massive sum was raised through its four flagship events in 2018 to help with the fight against Duchenne muscular dystrophy.

Related: VIDEO: Wigan 10k hailed the 'best ever'The charity was set up by Alex Johnson and her husband Andy, a former Wigan Warriors player, after their son Jack was diagnosed with the condition seven years ago.

Wiganers have taken Joining Jack into their hearts and dug deep to give their support.

Their generosity has seen £100,000 raised through four of the charity’s key events - Run Wigan Festival, Wigan Bike Ride, Yorkshire Three Peaks and Wigan 10k.

The money has been earmarked for projects around the world carrying out research into treatments for the incurable muscle-wasting disease.

Mrs Johnson said results from gene therapy trials looked promising, giving hope for people with Duchenne and their loved ones.

She said: “The Wigan community has been instrumental in making this happen. We couldn’t have done it without them. It has been amazing.”

She added: “A huge thank you from the bottom of our hearts. We wouldn’t have been able to fund the projects without their support.”

The year did not start well when snow led to the cancellation of the half marathon at the Run Wigan Festival in March.

But many people still turned out for the 5k and family mile, while some runners completed a virtual half marathon instead to earn the medal or simply donated their entry fee to the charity.

The second Wigan Bike Ride was a big success, with nearly 600 riders taking part in the 50-mile and five-mile rides.

A massive £32,000 was raised there, surpassing the £25,000 target.

A team of 27 walkers took on the Yorkshire Three Peaks in July, braving all kinds of weather conditions.

The sixth annual Wigan 10k was again started by Jack and saw 2,500 people take part, before the family mile got under way.

Plans are already being made for the events to return in 2019, as well as for other Joining Jack fund-raisers.