Gary ‘Mani’ Mounfield’s godson is set to run the Adidas Manchester Marathon in memory of his late godfather and Mani’s wife Imelda, while raising money for Maggie’s Centres.
Luke Atherton, the son of former Stone Roses tour manager Steve ‘Adj’ Atherton – often called ‘the fifth Stone Rose’ – said he wants to raise as much money as possible for the cancer support charity, which both Mani and Imelda supported and received help from.
As the bassist in The Stone Roses and latterly Primal Scream, Mani remained one of the most recognisable figures in British music. He was married to Imelda Mounfield, whom he met during the recording of The Stone Roses’ Second Coming album, until her death from bowel cancer in November 2023.
Mani died in November 2025 at the age of 63, from respiratory issues related to emphysema.
Explaining why he had decided to take on the marathon, Atherton said: “I wanted to do something that reflected the great work they both achieved fundraising, especially after Imelda became poorly. They never gave up. Running this marathon is my way of saying thank you to them both. My thoughts will always be with Greg, Joe, Gene, George and the rest of the family x.”
Maggie’s Centres provide free support for people affected by cancer, offering practical, emotional and social help in spaces designed to feel calm and welcoming. Based near NHS hospitals, the centres also offer online and phone support for people dealing with treatment, money worries, stress and the wider impact of illness.
Anyone wanting to back Luke’s run can donate via his JustGiving page.
