On Saturday 25th October, I’ll be running a full marathon, starting and finishing at Cray Wanderers FC. The finish line will be shortly before kick-off at the men’s fixture, Cray Wanderers FC vs Dartford FC at 3pm.

I’ll be completing the last kilometre on the actual pitch itself, just before the match begins for crowd support.

I’m running this marathon to raise money for Steve Deehy, our friend and the much-loved Cray Wanderers U7’s Sharks Coach. A few months ago, Steve suffered a horrific knee injury while ironically playing in a charity match at Cray Wanderers.

Steve has faced surgery, time in a wheelchair, and weeks on crutches, as his knee cannot bend. Due to the severity of his injury and what his job demands, he is unable to work for the foreseeable future. Mortgage payments, everyday expenses, and household costs never stop, and he is desperate to support his wife and two children.

The U7’s Sharks parents, the Cray Wanderers club and I want to do all we can to help Steve and his loved ones through this tough time. Every penny raised will have a real impact. Sometimes the smallest gestures make the biggest difference, and this is one of those moments where our community can come together to support someone who’s always been there for us and our boys.

I won’t be running alone — some of the other Sharks parents will be joining me for sections of the marathon, and the U7's Sharks boys will run alongside me for as long as their little legs can carry them!

Steve is a top bloke — he gives his time, energy, and care to others without ever asking for anything in return. Now it’s our turn to do something for him.

Please, if you can, donate whatever you’re able. Together, we can make a huge difference for Steve and his family.

On behalf of myself, Cray Wanderers FC and the other parents of Cray Wanderers U7’s Sharks, thank you so much in advance — your support means the world, and Steve will be forever grateful.

Michael Weight