THE lasting legacy of Danny Parr lives on in his loved ones who put their best foot forward in memory of the popular 27-year-old.

Affirmation of how much Danny was loved was clear for all to see as more than 50 people gathered for the sponsored walk from his parents’ house in Padgate to Manchester United’s home ground on Friday.

This was a fitting tribute to Danny who enjoyed going for walks with his dad Phil when he wasn’t supporting his beloved football team. 

The charity challenge was organised by Liam Kenwright and Ryan Owen – the friends have been inseparable since meeting at Padgate High School.

Ryan, 27, who had asked Danny to be a godparent to his six-month-old daughter, said: “He was the best – there is not a bad word you can say about him.

“He was so generous and fun.

“We already knew this – but it has helped us all to see how loved he was.”

Danny died suddenly on July 8. He left behind a loving family and a close-knit group of friends who have since vowed to help others who are struggling to cope, hopefully preventing another family from facing the same agonising heartache. 

So far more than £12,000 has been raised in aid of MIND – a charity that supports people with mental health issues. 

Liam, 27, added: “We wanted to organise something in Dan’s memory.

“We asked Phil and his family what they wanted to do with the money.

“He came back and said he wanted to give the money to charity – that says a lot about Phil and where Dan got it from.”

Dan’s death has also sparked a wider conversation about mental health issues among those who loved him most.

Dan’s family bravely shared his story in last week’s Warrington Guardian in the hope of breaking down the barriers surrounding the condition which so many suffer in silence. Read more here.

Liam said: “Obviously if for one second we got the impression or he mentioned anything was wrong then we would have done something.

“There wasn’t a sign — it’s frightening.

“But it has started a conversation and some people who wouldn’t have been ok about talking about this have been.

“Dan has already made an impact – I just wish he would have done the same.”

But while the coming weeks, months and years will be difficult, his friends – just like his family – will remember Danny for who he really was.

Liam said: “He was an incredible friend. When a footballer dies they become the best player in the world but Dan really was the best out of us all.

“He was the nicest and most generous.”

Danny's dad Phil has been touched by the support of his son's friends, who even organised pit stops along the way so they could raise a beer in his memory.

“It was an unforgettable day," he said.

“They are all 27 but they are still kids to me.

“It has been incredible how they have pulled everything together.”

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