Blackpool soldier hitches a ride to raise footie cash

10:18am Wednesday 20th August 2008

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A Blackpool soldier is emulating a charity stunt first done by his dad a generation ago, to raise funds for the football team his two sons play for.

Martin Campbell, 35, a staff sergeant with the 22 Rgt Royal Engineers, will attempt to hitchhike to North Wales, run up Mount Snowdon and then thumb lifts all the way back, all in three days.

The fundraising attempt, which begins today, is in aid of the Spirit of Youth Football Club, where Martin’s two boys, Lewis, eight and five-year-old Alexander both play.

The hitchhike challenge was first done by Martin’s dad, Alexander, 69, in 1982, when he successfully did the same thing for his son’s football club in their former home in Birmingham.

Martin, who lives in Marton, said: “I remember how proud and pleased I was when my dad did this originally and the thought came to me that it would be a good way to raise funds for the team’s tour of the south coast.

“I’m hoping to complete it in three days and I’m looking forward to seeing the scenery and mountains in Snowdonia.

“I’ve been ribbing the boys that they will have to do it for their children when they’re older too.

“My dad has always been an inspiration to me, he was a military man too and he had a big smile on his face when I told him about my plans.

“I’ll make sure I call the lads and my wife Kelly to tell them how far I’ve got, provided I get past the M55 roundabout!”

Fitness fanatic Martin, who has been in the forces for 17 years, revealed that, weather permitting, his army training would help him ascend Snowdon in an unusual way.

“If the weather’s fine I’m going to run up the mountain,” he said.

To sponsor Martin contact team manager Roger Hughes on 07727 059474.