LIFELONG pals from Winnington united by the memory of their Sunday league football coach are about to embark on a 'gruelling' challenge.

Coach Bob Fullwood, a newsagent from Winnington and dad to one of the lads, Scott Fullwood, died in 2020, aged 69, following a short battle with cancer.

Bob managed Scott's Sunday league football team at Moss Farm, and after he died, the old teammates decided to do an annual fundraising expedition for Macmillan Cancer Support.

So far, the lads have attempted to climb all 24 Lake District peaks in 24 hours, completed a 120-mile coast-to-coast bike ride, and scaled Yr Wydffa (formerly Snowdon) three times, also in just 24 hours.  

This year, on July 12, the gang will be setting off from the Molineux Stadium in Wolverhampton and hiking to Northwich, giving themselves just 24 hours walking time.

Father and son, Bob (left) and Scott FullwoodFather and son, Bob (left) and Scott Fullwood (Image: Scott Fullwood)

Scott said: “My dad was from Wolverhampton, and a big Wolves fan, hence starting off at the Molineux.

“It doesn't sound that much, but I think the biggest challenge is going to be the blisters. I honestly reckon it'll be gruelling.

“The lads are all friends I grew up with. My dad was their football coach when we were all growing up, and they remember him pretty fondly.

“We’ve all been getting out every weekend doing training walks. We did the Northwich circular the other week, which is 23 miles.

“We were all knackered. The thought of doubling that in a single day, then doing it all over again the next day, is a bit scary.

“I think the cardio fitness side isn't going to be an issue. It’s more the wear and tear on your joints, and especially your feet.”

Scott and his friends have raised more than £27,000 through their challenges, and hope to add another chunk to that with their upcoming trek. 

He was also put forward for a Macmillan award last year in recognition of all his fundraising work for the charity which cared for his dad so well when he was ill.

Scott added: “It’s sad I couldn’t actually make the ceremony, but it was great to get a bit of recognition as this is our fifth year fundraising for them.

“I’m so grateful for what they did to support my dad. If I can do something which helps them while helping keep his memory alive, everyone wins.”