A STROKE survivor helped footballers complete their lockdown challenge to support a charity close to their hearts.

The team ran the distance from Prestwick to Wembley and back to raise thousands for Ayrshire Sands in tribute to teammate John Anderson, whose daughter Lottie was stillborn.

Club secretary Ricky Bicker, who had been hospitalised with a stroke, joined John for an emotional race to the finish at Glenburn MWFC’s ground in Prestwick.

The team had rallied round John and his partner Aimi and despite lockdown were determined to raise funds for the charity Ayrshire Sands, who support families who have experienced stillbirth or a neonatal bereavement.

Last week, they donated £1,450 to the charity after raising a total of £2,889. The further £1,450 was donated to the Kris Boyd Charity, who are helping people struggling with their mental health throughout lockdown.

Manager George Wallace told the Advertiser: “It was some effort from the boys.

“We had completed the distance to Wembley in just two days, so we decided to run it back up and extend it over five days.

“To finish it all off, Jock (John) and Ricky who had a stroke last year ran the last leg of it together at our ground. It was a fitting way to end it.

“Ricky was in hospital this time last year so it was great to see him build himself back up and take part.

“We’ve raised a really decent amount for both charities, the boys can be proud of that.”

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