We want to support the people of the North East to live happier and healthier lives. Low life expectancy, poverty, poor mental health, unemployment and anti-social behaviour are the biggest problems that face our region and we hope to raise funds for the Foundation to combat these issues through the power of football.

We (Alfie and Joe) are setting off from the Stadium of Light on Tuesday 25 February to run 4 marathons in 4 days to finish at Hillsborough Stadium in Sheffield for our away fixture on Friday 28 February. We will be travelling only by foot and staying overnight in different towns along the way.

We are both extremely passionate supporters of Sunderland and know the importance of football to the city and on each individual person. Football is a way of life in the North East, both watching and playing, and can be key to our mental health and a distraction from our anxieties in life.

Any donations are really appreciated and we hope to celebrate our run with a victory at Hillsbrough at the end of the month!