Staff and directors at the Altrincham FC Community Sports Company are organising a sponsored walk to raise money in order to buy Christmas gifts for local children with serious medical conditions.

The walk, taking place on Sunday, December 5, will see the group set off from the J. Davidson Stadium at 9.30AM and complete an 8.3 mile trip to Edgeley Park, home of Stockport County.

The money raised will be spent on presents for young patients at The Christie Hospital and the Children's Adventure Farm Trust (CAFT).

Simon Dow, Community Manager at the club's Community Sports Company, said: "As the community charity of the football club we want to ensure all children at CAFT and The Christie have an amazing Christmas.

"With everyone pulling together on this initiative I’m sure we can make it happen."

After the walk is completed and the money is collected, the buying process will begin. Presents will be wrapped and delivered by those at the Community Sports Company in mid-December, with the hope that some players may even help to deliver the gifts to the children.

The idea for the sponsored walk came from director Grahame Rowley who wanted to find a way to help children with illnesses or disabilities over the festive period and make it a Christmas to be remembered. As people prepare to enjoy this time of the year at home with loved ones, many children face the reality of spending the holidays in hospital.

The initiative is open for all Alty fans and anyone else who wants to take part.

Mr Dow said: "We would love to have as many people as possible join us for the walk, but for organisational reasons we’d like people to notify us as to their intention to walk."

To sign up, people are asked to email simon@altrinchamfootballclub.co.uk who can provide a sponsor form.

A JustGiving page has been set up for those who wish to contribute but are unable to join on the day and has raised over £500 out of its £1,000 target so far.