Gamlingay United FC raises incredible £9k for Sue Ryder St John’s Hospice

Around 60 runners comprising team members, their families and former players were busy exercising to collectively reach a target of 1,748 miles, representing the length from the tip of Scotland to the tip of Cornwall and the reverse journey.

The number was also set as a target for the fundraising, but the team surpassed this goal, raising an incredible £9,100 for Sue Ryder St John’s Hospice.

Speaking during the challenge, a Gamlingay United FC spokesman said: “We ran 500 miles in the first two days, including the youths, who did 29 miles between them.

“It’s been a real club effort; we started off just the adult team but then the youth team joined in, with some of their parents doing it as well. It’s great that everyone is getting involved!”

The challenge was organised by vice-chair Adam Wuestner after the club’s annual memorial match for Steve Loney was cancelled due to the coronavirus.

Steve was the father of Gamlingay United FC player Aaron Loney, and passed away from bowel cancer at Sue Ryder St John’s Hospice in 2015.

But with the hospice suffering from a lack of funds due to the pandemic, the club was determined to help.

Aaron said: “During lockdown, the charity hasn’t stopped, but their funding has because no-one can hold their events.

“But life still goes on. It’s great that the club has organised this to give some money to St John’s Hospice. It is a brilliant charity.”

The club would like to thank everyone for their donations and for their support and encouragement whilst they have been running round their homes in Gamlingay and surrounding areas.

Gamlingay United FC would also like to give a special shout out to the U10s team for their fantastic effort.

The team finished on June 28 and some players will met at Gamlingay community centre for a socially-distanced gathering to celebrate. They also finished any extra miles that needed completing.

The club spokesman added: “Sue Ryder St John’s Hospice is such a great charity and I think everybody knows someone who’s been there. It’s really motivating people - some are running two miles and others are doing 15. Everyone’s helping to push us further along!”

You can donate to the charity via the JustGiving link: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/gamlingayunited