Longridge Town will support their former defender following MND diagnosis

The 36-year-old recently announced he had been diagnosed with motor neurone disease and is aiming to raise awareness of the illness.

An online fundraising page has been set up while further events have been planned for later this year.

Ashcroft said: “He’s not just a player, he’s a friend.

“I must be speaking to him three or four times a day, he’s in good spirits and we’re trying to do all we can.

“As a football club, we’re trying to do lots for him and will definitely be doing something when we can.”

For their part, Town have issued a statement adding: “Naturally everyone at the club, and at George’s former teams, will continue to offer our full support to George and his young family as he battles this disease head on.

“A ‘Go Fund Me’ page has been kindly set up by Mark Fell, a former colleague of his, and we would kindly ask that any donations are made through this growing fund.

“We are fully aware that these are difficult times for us all, but if you can all think of just once that you saw George play, and appreciate the absolute 100 per cent that he always gave for the club, it’ll no doubt put a smile on your face.

“Longridge Town have already made a direct donation and would like to take this opportunity to wish him all the very best, encourage everyone to do the same and donate generously, for George.”

A special shirt has already been made to help raise money and Town are taking orders from anyone interested.

They cost £40 for adults and £30 for juniors, and anyone interested in ordering one should contact the club’s commercial manager, Joanne Cummings, on 07525 669598 or email [email protected]

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