Michael’s stadiums run for Sir Bobby’s charity
CANCER is one thing that unites Sunderland and Newcastle supporters – and one bookmaker who works at both stadiums decided to take on a sponsored run between the two cities.
Michael Duell, 21, set off from St James’ Park at 9am on Saturday, arriving at the Stadium of Light less than two hours later, raising hundreds of pounds for the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation.
The Sunderland University student, who lives in Silksworth, took on the challenge on the eve of yesterday’s derby game at a time when passion runs high between the two teams, as he believes the cause is something that unites both sets of fans.
“It went really well,” he said.
“I did the 12.5 miles in one hour 48 minutes, which is a good time really, so I’m happy with that.”
So far Michael, who works for Bet Butler within the Stadium of Light and Bet 138 at St James’s Park, has collected more than £ 250 in sponsorship, but he hopes the total will be nearer to £ 400 once all the money has been gathered in.
“Working at both clubs, I get to see at first- hand the strength of feeling both sets of fans have for their team,” he said.
“It’s derby week so that’s always a bit of a crazy one for betting shops as fans get even more passionate than normal and I wanted to mark the occasion somehow.
“When I decided I wanted to do this run for charity, I knew it should be for the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation.
“I remember seeing Sir Bobby at the Stadium of Light all the time, even though we all know he was a Newcastle fan.
“The work of his charity is something which unites the whole region and I’m really proud to do my bit.”
To sponsor Michael, visit www. justgivingcom/ runforrobson.