I am a retired rugby player who has enjoyed a 55 year-long, largely injury free, rugby career, finally retiring at the age of 65, and remain involved in local rugby at the Lutterworth Rugby Club to this day. I have been moved by the sad loss of rugby greats such as Doddie Weir and Rob Burrow and also the dignity of those who are fighting their own battle against this terrible disease, including former Leicester Tigers player Ed Slater.

I turned 80 this year and want to celebrate my birthday by taking on the challenge of walking 80k for 80 in 24hrs in support of The MND Association who focus on improving access to care, research and campaigning for those people living with or affected by MND in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

I'll be walking with my wife, Samantha, who, although rather younger than me will be walking with two replacement hips so this will be a massive challenge for both of us! Our circular route starts from the Lutterworth Rugby Club on the 25th of October 2024, returning to the Club in time for the kick off on Saturday 26th of October of our local derby - Lutterworth First XV vs Market Harborough First XV. On the way we plan to pass several local Rugby Clubs including Belgrave, Birstall, Leicester Tigers, Vipers and Leicester Lions as we walk through the day and night on our journey.

Please take time to help me reach my target of £2000 to cover the cost of a text to speech device, to give someone with MND the ability to continue to communicate with their loved ones. Your support will mean the world to us, but most importantly will raise vital funds to help people affected by MND. As always everyone is welcome at the Lutterworth Rugby Club on the 26th, not only to welcome us back to the clubhouse but also to cheer on our Teams!

Thank you and best wishes Paul (Blakey)