AN OXFORDSHIRE football team is running the length of Britain (twice) to raise money for the NHS.
Originally, Stonesfield Football Club had planned on running a singular length of the British Isles, however, after smashing that target, the team is now hoping to make it a two-legged journey.
Inspired by other local clubs, and friends and family, Stonesfield set out on the four-week challenge on April 20.
The fundraiser is also close to the heart of manager, Mike Phipps, as his sister Holly works on the High Dependency Unit with newborn babies at the John Radcliffe hospital.
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“We saw a couple of other local teams doing their bit and then the length of Britain thing came into my head one night so it was a bit off the cuff,” Mr Phipps said.
“We then managed to pass that mark on day 12 so we’re doing a return leg.
“With the times the way they are, the NHS are doing a fantastic job and with my sister and friends working at the NHS, it felt closer to home.
“We’ve got two teams at Stonesfield but we’re one club, we’re very social and very close.
“It’s nice that we’re close knit and we’re driving each other on and that’s why we’ve hit the targets.
“We had a couple of injuries early doors but we’re all back now.
“I myself have struggled with cramps and ankle swelling as I broke my leg a couple of years ago.”
The 17 people taking part range in age from 18 to Mr Phipps’ dad Mick, 57.
Every player from the men’s team, including two sets of brothers, and Laura Higgs from the women’s team.
“We’re all doing the running from different locations - we’re in Abingdon, Kidlington, Witney, and a couple of the younger lads are in Stonesfield,” Mr Phipps, 31, said.
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“We’ve had some really nice comments and messages from people, there’s been some really good feedback.
“There’s also been some good banter with some of the other clubs which has helped push us on.”
So far, the group has raised almost £900 for Oxford Hospitals Charity.
To donate, please visit: justgiving.com/fundraising/stonesfieldfcrun4nhs
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