Preston North End fans’ ‘boot the virus’ campaign backed by players across the country

The ‘Boot the Virus’ campaign was launched last month by Kenny Marland and his partner Joanne Dalton.

They set about getting players to donate a pair of signed boots which could be auctioned off. Over a two-week period, 370 pairs of boots from players at 68 clubs were donated.

The Boot the Virus auction website went live on Friday, inviting bids for the football boots – starting at £10 per pair.

In the first few hours, bids running into several thousand pounds were made.

All the North End players donated a pair of their 
boots, skipper Tom Clarke having set the ball rolling when the campaign was launched.

Kenny is a lifelong PNE fans who travels home and away to matches.

The NHS is close to his heart as he battles against cancer for a fourth time.

He recently completed chemotherapy treatment and will have surgery soon.

Speaking at the launch of the campaign, Kenny said: “I have a personal affinity with the NHS heroes due to my vulnerable situation.

“I am frustrated at having to stay at home when I would rather be volunteering to help the wonderful people at the NHS.

“I was pondering how I could combine my passion for football and help out, then the idea of ‘Boot the Virus’ came to me in a chat with Joanne.”

People wanting to join the auction can set up an account and bid at www.bootthevirus.com.