Friends set 100-mile running challenge in memory of popular Northamptonshire footballer

Friends of a Northamptonshire footballer who tragically lost his life to cancer last year aged 29 are aiming to run 100 miles each in March to raise money for charity.

Ali Foote was originally battling germ cell cancer but eventually lost his life to Sarcoma and the fundraising effort will be supporting Sarcoma UK.

One of the organisers, Kieran Wickens, said more than 25 people were taking part in the challenge.

"Due to the pandemic it has been difficult to arrange anything in honour of Ali and many friends and family were unable to attend his funeral which was particularly difficult for many at the time," he said.

"Therefore we at Roade FC and other friends and family have decided to each run 100 miles in the month of March in the hope of raising as much money as possible for sarcoma UK to increase awareness and research funds for the cancer that cruelly took Ali from us at the age of just 29, the chosen charity was decided at the request of Ali’s heartbroken family.

"Ali was a great bloke who is sorely missed by us all so hopefully people can dig deep to support a great cause," he said.

To support the appeal, visit the Justgiving page.

Last year, when Ali passed away, Roade Football Club post a tribute to him.

"Roade are deeply saddened to learn of the passing away of fans favourite Ali Foote. Ali was an integral part of both the Saturday and Sunday sides for a number of seasons and was loved by each and everyone of his teammates and supporters of the club over the years. Rest in peace Ali. You will be missed massively," the statement said.

Those taking part in the fundraising include Kieran Wickens, Calum Wickens, Ed Reece, Ed Sears, Lewis Curtis, Ollie Anderson, Mark Osborne, Jake Roberts, Lee Broome, Leo McDonnell, Nick Powell, Dan Scott-Wade, James Lawton, Tom Watts, Danny Hearn, Daniel Osborne, Dan Porter, Karl Hoy, Ollie Laine, Andy Watts. Dale Lewis, Michael Betts. Jake Hogden, Paddy Haddock, Dannie Charlton, Archie Best, Scott Chilton, Ciara Walker, Hannah Glasspool, Chelsea Markwell, Nanda Carvalho, Sarah Bland, Daniel Lumb, Neil Howard, Micky Kirby, Lewis Blake, Andy Roberts, Joe Roberts.