Cricketers launch crowdfunding drive to support Pudsey Congs through Covid difficulties

Players and supporters of the club in West Leeds have rallied together to attempt to run 1,000 miles in February to support both Pudsey Congs and Alderhey Children's Hospital.

Chris Doey, 29, said the club had lost 'a hell of a lot of money' through the Covid pandemic - with the bar and facilities unable to be used due to lockdown restrictions.

So together with his teammates, Chris created a challenge titled #1000MileFeb - with everyone contributing to the total.

Chris, social media manager at the club, said: "The cogs soon started turning and we realised we had a lot of runners at the club and who would be more than willing to take on the challenge.

"From this we decided, why do all this work for just our own personal gain?

"We have a club that has lost a hell of a lot of money throughout the whole lockdown period.

"From this we went for the crowd funding option.

"The miles quickly ticked over and our #500MileFeb turned into #1000MileFeb.

"Many of us at the club have raised thousands of pounds in recent years for AlderHey Children’s Hospital as we have a close friend whose son spends a lot of time there.

"We thought what is better than splitting the raised money, giving half to AlderHey, as they just like everyone are finding it hard at the moment."

Chris said the response had been 'phenomenal'.

He said: "We have had members of the public messaging us wanting to join on and help raise money for two brilliant causes."

A fundraiser page has now been set up on GoFundMe, with an original target of £1,000 smashed in just a few days.

On the fundraiser, the team said: "We are proud to have strong links to Alderhey Children's Hospital and half of the funds raised will be donated so they can carry on their amazing work.

"For the Cricket Club, we are looking to raise funds to pay essential bills and maintain the upkeep of the cricket club during the ongoing pandemic.

"With no income through the bar and members not able to attend the club, we are experiencing tough times and would like to bring the cricket club and the community together to help raise fund whilst keeping fit."

To donate to the fundraiser, click here.