THIS Saturday marks the 70th anniversary of the death of Olympic champion Eric ‘Chariots of Fire’ Liddell.

His father, Rev James Liddell, was born in Greenock, and Eric ran at Cappielow in Glenpark Harriers’ sports before and after the 1924 Paris Olympics, where he refused to run on a Sunday but won the 400 metres in a world record time and also claimed bronze in the 200m.

Indeed, the inspirational athlete’s links with Greenock extended to him generously presenting his Eric Liddell Challenge Trophy to Glenpark in 1925. The club displays the splendid cup proudly in the McLean Museum.

Asked about his golden triumph, Eric said: “The secret of my success over the 400m is that I run the first 200m as fast as I can. Then, for the second 200m, with God’s help I run faster.” Eric was a Christian missionary in China, and, tragically, passed away from a brain tumour in a Japanese internment camp at the age of 43.

His story inspired my favourite film, ‘Chariots of Fire’, made in 1981 and winner of four Oscars, including best picture.

Eric was played memorably by Scots actor Ian Charleson, who not only bore a remarkable resemblance to him but also studied at the University of Edinburgh.

I’ve just read a comprehensive and moving biography, Eric Liddell: Pure Gold, by David McCasland, (published by Lion) chronicling the runner’s eventful life.

It’s a fitting tribute to one of Scotland’s greatest heroes.