HUNDREDS of people are expected to come together in Southport this November for a special memorial run and walk celebrating the life of much-loved mum-of-2, Sharon Armstrong-Williams, while raising money for mental health charity Mind.

The event will take place on:- Sunday, 15 November 2026, starting and finishing at Level Up Gym on Virginia Street. Participants are asked to arrive at:- 9.45am ahead of a 10am start.

More than 250 people have already signed up, with organisers offering a choice of a 5km run, 3km run or 3km walk to make the event accessible to people of different abilities.

Sharon, who was married to husband Johnny and had 2 children, Abi and Mikey, died 6 weeks ago at the age of 52.

The memorial event is being organised by Level Up Gym and Neon Running UK, a Liverpool-based running company.

Louise Doran from Level Up Gym, where Sharon was a long-standing member, wanted to organise the event as a way of celebrating her friend's life and bringing together the many people who knew and loved her.

Sharon was born and raised in Southport and attended Greenbank High School. She was remembered as a sociable, affectionate and fun-loving person who enjoyed music, dancing and spending time with friends.

More than 600 people attended her funeral, reflecting the affection she inspired throughout the community.

Louise said:- “Sharon was such a party girl. She loved music. She loved to dance. She loved to literally hug absolutely anyone and everyone. She was only 52 when she died - it’s been a massive shock to everyone who knew her.”

Louise explained that Sharon had recently lost her battle with her mental health and that the event was intended to remember her in a positive and uplifting way.

“This is not a race, this is a coming together to celebrate Sharon and remember her”, added Louise.

The event will begin at Level Up Gym before participants head along Eastbank Street, turn right onto Lord Street and continue up Nevill Street. The routes will then split according to whether participants are completing the 5km or 3km distance.

Neon Running UK will help create an upbeat atmosphere, with music and speakers accompanying each group.

Stephen Melling from Neon Running said the event would be suitable for all abilities, with DJ Leo Carter helping provide the music.

Following the run and walk, participants will return to Level Up Gym for food, drinks, a DJ and live bongos from Leon.

Louise hopes the gathering will reflect Sharon's love of music, parties and bringing people together.

Louise said:- “We want to remember Sharon the way she would want us to -  surrounded by friends, having fun, sharing memories and enjoying life.”

Everyone is welcome, including gym members and non-members, family, friends, former school friends and anyone wishing to show their support.

As well as celebrating Sharon's life, the event will raise funds for mental health charity Mind.

Sharon loved sunflowers, and sunflower-themed Pocket Hugs will be available to purchase with cash on the day, with every penny raised going to the charity.

A GoFundMe page has also been set up for anyone who cannot attend but would still like to contribute.

Participation is free, although those wishing to take part are encouraged to register in advance.

Stephen Melling said:- “It’s going to be a day of love, and remembering, and fitness, and good energy.”


How to get involved

The memorial run and walk takes place on:- Sunday, 15 November 2026, at Level Up Gym, Virginia Street, Southport. Arrival is at:- 9.45am for a 10am start.

Register for the free memorial run or walk

Donate to the fundraising appeal for Mind.  

Whether you're running, walking or just coming along to show your support, everyone is welcome to join in, share memories and celebrate Sharon's life.