BARROW AFC are playing host to an 24-hour charity match with two teams going head-to-head in a bid to raise funds for worthwhile causes.

Players from Barrow AFC, the Community Trust and the Academy will go up against those from Barrow & District Junior League with all money raised being split evenly between St Mary’s Hospice and funds to improve football facilities on Schneider Road.

Last year, the event raised £8,000 for local grassroots football and for improvements to The Bluebirds’ disabled facilities – and the hope is that even more can be raised this time around with it being played at The Dunes Hotel Stadium.

Community Trust Manager Craig Rutherford, who is the brains behind the charity extravaganza, said: “It was such an amazing experience for everyone involved last year.

“I couldn’t feel my legs at the end of last year’s game, and I did wonder at times what I had got myself into – so people must think we’re mad to do it all over again!

“It was fantastic to play at Furness Cavaliers last year and they were brilliant hosts whom we remain grateful to, but the support from the Club this season has meant we are able to stage the event at The Dunes Hotel Stadium.

“I think playing on the main pitch will give all the players that little boost, will allow more people to come and support it and hopefully provide the chance to raise even more money.

“As well as the backing of the Club, I’m really grateful for the support of Rickie Wallbank and Steven Gill who are both helping with the organisation to make sure this year is another massive success.

“St Mary’s Hospice has a personal place in my heart because they took such exceptional care of my father-in-law during his illness and supported our whole family with such care and empathy.

“That will act as my inspiration when the going gets tough in the game and hopefully this year I can come out on the winning side once again too!”

This year’s 24-hour game will take place over the weekend of Saturday May, 14 and Sunday, May 15, with the Performance Centre’s tournament for Under 7s and Under 8s acting as the curtain-raiser before the main event kicks-off at 3pm.

To support the event visit: https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/24-hour-football-match.