Preston North End support the 'Boot the Virus' campaign

Preston North End have thrown their weight behind a fund-raising effort for the NHS set up by two PNE fans.
Preston North End skipper Tom ClarkePreston North End skipper Tom Clarke
Preston North End skipper Tom Clarke

The ‘Boot the Virus’ campaign is the idea of Kenny Marland and his partner Joanne Dalton.

They are asking players to donate a pair of signed football boots which will be auctioned online with money raised going directly to the NHS.

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North End skipper Tom Clarke has set the ball rolling by donating a pair of his boots and others have pledged to take part.

Lifelong PNE supporter and season-ticket holder Kenny, holds the NHS close to his heart.

He is having chemotherapy treatment as he battles against cancer for the fourth time.

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.

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“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.

“I then put the idea into the notes section on my phone and sent a copy to Tom Clarke to ask for his thoughts.

“Tom said it was a good idea and that he would back the campaign.

“That gave us the confidence and belief to give it a go. We are asking professional footballers from all the leagues in England to donate a pair of their signed matchday boots.

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“I know times are difficult right now. The plan is for all donated items to go to an online auction via our website, giving fans the opportunity to own a piece of sporting memorabilia with 100 per cent of the monies raised going directly to the NHS.

PNE defender Clarke has been delighted to join Kenny with the fund-raising.

Clarke said: “Kenny is going through chemotherapy at the moment which is really difficult for him and his family so to even be thinking about doing things for other people is brilliant and testament to how strong he is.”

“We are all trying to do our bit and thinking of ways we can help and how to help the NHS and those struggling at the moment.”

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“When Kenny first came to me with the idea I knew it would kick off and the club are backing it as well.

“We are trying to get it out there as much as we can and trying to move it forward.”

Further information is available via www.bootthevirus.com and through social media platforms.

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