Keegan backs charity walk (From Messenger Newspapers)

Former England star Kevin Keegan gets behind the Manchester Midnight Walk

12:00pm Monday 23rd April 2012 in News

FORMER England football boss Kevin Keegan is backing the Manchester Midnight Walk in support of a friend who lost his mother to breast cancer.

His pal Stephen Parkes, a personal trainer from Altrincham, is taking part in the 10 kilometre walk in aid of St Ann’s Hospice on June 16.

Kevin is calling on people to sign up for the walk which is expected to attract a field of around 3,000 walkers.

He heard about the work of the hospice from Stephen whose late mother Janice, from Harboro Road, Sale, was treated at St Ann’s nearly two years ago.

“I’ve been told about St Ann’s Hospice by Stephen and unfortunately won’t be in Manchester that day but my thoughts will be with him and all the other walkers raising money for such a fantastic charity,” said Kevin, who has retained his links with the area even though it is almost seven years since he left his job as Manchester City manager.

“I know how a Manchester crowd can create a good atmosphere and I’m sure it’ll be a great occasion in the city centre.”

Kevin has already done his bit for St Ann’s by donating a game of golf with the soccer star at the Mere golf resort and spa – which raised £2,000 in an auction for the charity.

He turned to Stephen for fitness advice through his health and fitness company OneoneFitness. “Kevin was one of the fittest footballers around and still strives to maintain his healthy lifestyle,” said Stephen. “Last year we had quite a few family and friends in the Walk and raised more than £4,000. I’m just hoping we can do just as well if not better this year because I can see that every penny counts.”

The Manchester Midnight Walk is popular with families and covers a route past famous city centre landmarks, starting at Manchester Central at 11.30 pm. Registration is £15 and £8 for those aged 11 to 17. To enter go to www.manchestermidnightwalk.org.uk or call 0161 498 3631.