Rain foils Manchester Marathon runner’s attempt to break world record for running while crocheting

A local runner’s attempt to break a world record at Sunday’s Manchester Marathon was foiled by unexpected weather and misbehaving yarn.

Louise Warwick aimed to make the longest crochet chain while running since the record of 139.4 metres was set by Susie Hewer in 2014. Over the course of a six-hour run, Louise crocheted 110 metres of yarn, which she tucked into an increasingly bulging crochet apron around her waist.

She said: “I’m gutted I didn’t get it, but I’m so proud of myself for even trying to do something so crazy.”

The race began well, but as the runner reached Deansgate in the fourth mile, it started to drizzle. “I knew that if it rains, the record attempt would have to be cancelled - once the yarn gets wet, you just can’t work with it. And then I got a knot in one of my yarn balls!” Louise said.

This was Louise’s third Manchester Marathon but her first time participating since giving birth to her son. She said: “After having a baby, I knew I wasn’t going to be running as well as I used to, so I thought I’d take on a world record instead.”

Her partner and son came to cheer her on from the side-lines, along with her running crew from Prestwich AC.