Fundraisers running in memory of the 96 football fans who lost their lives in the Hillsborough disaster are aiming to raise thousands of pounds for children’s hospitals in Sheffield and Liverpool by covering the 96 miles between the two cities.
Team Leader Dominic Williams – one of the runners taking part – said: “The Hillsborough tragedy badly affected many people from both Liverpool and Sheffield.
“By linking the two cities in the run and raising money for both Alder Hey and Sheffield’s Children’s Hospital Charity, we hope to strengthen the bond between both cities.”
The run kicks off on 4 April 2013, departing from the pitch of Hillsborough before finishing at Anfield three days and 96 miles later.
Williams continued: “The two hospitals do amazing work and combined, they treat a phenomenal 445,000 children each year – many of whom are from their respective local
communities.
“Fundraising for these hospitals allows them to keep providing specialist services and equipment for sick and under-privileged children.
“Today, we’re kicking off the start of the fundraising so that we can raise money for both of these deserving charities.
“We all know that times are hard at the moment, but if enough people donate whatever they can – no matter how big or small – we can really achieve something good for the two cities.”
To donate, please visit www.hillsborough-anfieldrun.com/donate/ and follow the on-screen instructions.
Trevor Braithwait, Sheffield Wednesday’s Director of Communications, said: “We are pleased to add our support to this project, together with Liverpool FC and the wider communities of both cities central to the Hillsborough disaster.
“The concept of linking the two children’s hospitals as chief beneficiaries from the Hillsborough to Anfield Run is inspired and will only strengthen the existing bond between Liverpool and Sheffield.”
Andrew Parkinson, Operations Director of Liverpool, added: “Once again, Liverpool Football Club is delighted to support this year’s Hillsborough to Anfield run to help raise money for the children’s hospitals here in Liverpool and in Sheffield.
“We wish all the runners well and look forward to welcoming them on their safe arrival at Anfield.”